Chase follows Selma business robbery, suspects still at-large
Published 2:28 pm Monday, December 15, 2014
Officers recovered three guns after a chase Saturday night following a robbery at Subway. The search for the two suspects who escaped on foot.
The Selma Police Department is searching for suspects who allegedly robbed a Selma business Saturday night and led officers on a high-speed chase.
Officers have a warrant for Justin Lanyette Simpson, 27, of Selma, on charges of first-degree robbery and eluding law enforcement officers, according to Lt. Curtis Muhannad, head of the Selma Criminal Investigation Division. A second suspect has yet to be identified.
SIMPSON
The Subway restaurant in the 3000 block of Highway 80 East was robbed about 8 p.m., according to District Attorney Michael Jackson.
Officers responded to a call about a robbery in progress. When they arrived on the scene, detectives spoke with employees and other witnesses.
“Officers were advised that one black male wearing masks and carrying a large handgun had robbed the store and fled the scene in a silver or gray Dodge Avenger,” Muhannad said. “Officers gave the vehicle description out, and officers in the area made contact with the vehicle on Old Montgomery Highway.”
Officers attempted to pull over the vehicle, but it sped off and led law enforcement on a high-speed chase, which ended in the 400 block of Martin Luther King Street.
The driver and a front-seat passenger exited the car and fled on foot. One of the officers identified Simpson as the vehicle’s passenger.
The suspects managed to elude capture, but officers did recover two SKS assault rifles, often called “choppers,” and one Tech .9 semi automatic handgun.
No one was injured during the robbery or chase, according to the Selma Police Department.
Muhannad said investigators have probable cause to believe Simpson and his accomplice were involved in the Thursday robbery of another Highland Avenue business.
The Dollar General at 2100 West Highland was robbed about closing time, according to district attorney.
“Justin Simpson is armed and extremely dangerous,” Muhannad said. “If encountered, use necessary cautions.”
The Selma Police Department is asking anyone with information concerning this crime or any other crime to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-866-442-7463.
