Tool thief brandished gun at East Bay Home Depot: Police
The alleged theft occurred shortly before 8 p.m. Wednesday.
'Upon arrival, officers gathered information indicating that the suspect had stolen merchandise from the store,' the Newark Police Department said. 'A good Samaritan attempted to document the incident on video as the suspect loaded the stolen power tools into his getaway car. The suspect responded by threatening the witness with a handgun.'
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The suspect did not physically harm the bystander filming the crime, authorities said. Information provided by the witness was later used to identify the suspect.
The suspect was identified as 34-year-old Samuel Grajales. The Southern Alameda County Major Crimes Task Force located the getaway vehicle and the suspect hours later. Grajales was arrested and the stolen power tools were recovered from the suspect's vehicle.
Grajales was arrested for shoplifting, brandishing a firearm in public. and for outstanding warrants. Grajales' case was referred to the Alameda County District Attorney's Office for prosecution.
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'We extend our sincere gratitude to the vigilant witness whose quick action helped lead to the swift apprehension of a dangerous individual,' the Newark Police Department said. 'We encourage everyone to remain observant and report any suspicious activity. Remember: if you see something, say something. Please consider your safety first, before attempting to confront or intervene with a suspect, and do not hesitate to call 911 when witnessing a crime.'
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