Naugatuck Police Add Extra Patrols After Armed Robbery

Pictured: Michael Lopez. Photo courtesy of the Naugatuck Police Department.

A Waterbury man reportedly robbed two Big Y World Class Market employees in Naugatuck on Sept. 6, using a BB gun disguised as a serious firearm, according to a press release by police.

Michael Lopez, 30, allegedly approached the two workers around 10 p.m. near the Bridge Street store with a fascimile handgun and demanded money and valuables. When one of the employees said he or she didn’t have any, he pointed the gun to the person’s head. He then took their IDs and instructed the victims to drive away.

The victims left and immediately contacted police, providing descriptions of the suspect and his vehicle.

Approximately 30 minutes after the robbery, an off-duty Naugatuck police officer passed Lopez, who was changing a flat tire at the Express Mart Gas Station on Route 63, and recognized the suspect and vehicle description. When the officer stopped and asked Lopez if he needed help, the suspect pointed the handgun at him and said he was “fine.”

The officer called for backup and reapproached Lopez, arresting him and reclaiming the Big Y employees’ stolen belongings. Officials also discovered a BB gun resembling a real firearm. Lopez is held on a $250,000 bond.

Following the incident, police have increased on-foot security in the area to reinforce safety for customers. Police said no injuries were sustained, although the situation was likely traumatic for the victims and could have been much worse.