February 12, 2022 - MERCED – The Merced Police Department reports Merced Police officers are investigating two armed robberies.

On Friday, February 11 at 8:28 PM, officers responded to CVS at 1970 E. Yosemite Parkway for an armed robbery that just occurred. The unknown suspect pointed what appeared to be a firearm at the clerk and demanded money. The clerk handed over $200 cash and the suspect fled. The suspect discharged the weapon in the parking lot. Witnesses believed the weapon was a pellet gun due to the sound of the discharge. MPD Case # 22-8677.

Approximately 12 minutes later, officers received another report of an armed robbery from AM/PM at 810 S. Coffee Street. The suspect entered the store and pointed what appeared to be a firearm at the clerk. The clerk handed over $200 cash and the suspect fled. According to a witness, the suspect discharged the weapon inside the store, but the sound was consistent with a pellet gun. MPD Case # 22-8679.

The suspect in both robberies shares similar physical descriptions. He is described as a Hispanic male, 20-25 years old, with black hair, and brown eyes. The suspect wore a light-colored face mask, black hooded sweatshirt, and inside-out denim jeans.

If you know any information on either of these incidents we encourage you to contact the Merced Police Department.

Case Number: 22-8677 & 22-8679

Merced Police are asking anyone with any information regarding this crime to contact Officer Jacob Paynter at 209-385-6905 or by email at paynterj@cityofmerced.org.

Other ways to contact us or report crime include:

For any emergency call or text 911

For non-emergency call 209-385-6912

Anonymous Tip Line (Non-emergency) call 209-385-4725

Anonymous Tips online at http://www.mercedareacrimestoppers.org/index.html

Some crimes can be reported online through the Merced PD website https://www.cityofmerced.org/departments/police