February 16, 2023 – The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office reported that the Colorado River Station Special Enforcement Team (SET) and Investigations Bureau developed suspect information for a robbery that occurred at the Mesa Drive Valero Gas Station on January 29, 2023. Identified was Chaunce McBeth, 34 years old, and Gilbert Echenique, 20 years old, both of Blythe. The investigation led to the 200 block of N. Palm St. in the city of Blythe where a search warrant was authored and served. Evidentiary items located and collected related to the armed robbery included a Tec-9 firearm with three high-capacity magazines, ammunition, firearm accessories used in the robbery, shotgun with ammunition, a set of brass knuckles, two more high-capacity magazines, and a Smith & Wesson SD9 VE 9mm handgun. McBeth and Echenique were booked at the Blythe Jail for the robbery and conspiracy charges. Additional weapons related charges to be filed with the District Attorneys Office.

This is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact Investigator Morelock at the Colorado River Station (760) 921-7900.

As a reminder, “Community Policing" involves partnerships between law enforcement and community members. Business owners and residents are encouraged to report criminal activity directly to law enforcement by calling 911 if the matter is an emergency.

Reporting Deputy: Sergeant Reynoso

File # A230290023

Source & photos: Riverside County Sheriff’s Office