News Releases

MOBILE POLICE INVESTIGATE OVERNIGHT COMMERCIAL ROBBERIES (UPDATE)

Jul 23rd, 2009

File Number: 09-07-Commercial Robbery Investigations

The Mobile Police Department is currently investigating five overnight commercial robberies that occurred at multiple businesses throughout its jurisdiction. The first robbery incident occurred on 7/22/2009 at the Liquor Mart located at 4126 D Moffett Road at approximately 8:11 P.M. The second incident occurred on 7/22/2009 at the Shell Service Station located at 1373 Navco Road at approximately 10:06 P.M. The third incident occurred on 7/22/2009 at the Rainbow Spirits Package Store located at 1222 Hillcrest Road at approximately 11:20 P.M. The fourth incident occurred on 7/23/2009 at the Circle K Service Station located at 4659 Airport Boulevard at approximately 12:04 A.M. The fifth and last robbery incident occurred on 7/23/2009 at the Summit Service Station located at 3271 Dauphin Street at approximately 1:00 A.M.

During the commercial robberies, a lone black male subject entered the businesses armed with a small black handgun. The suspect pointed the weapon at the employee of each business and demanded money. After demanding money from the employees of each business, the suspect fled the scene on foot. The suspect was described as a thin black male, approximately 5'8"- 6'0", 140-150 pounds, wearing a green t-shirt and blue jeans with a red bandana covering his face.

After receiving descriptions of the suspect that committed each commercial robbery, officers and Robbery Investigators extensively searched for the perpetrator. Following the Summit Service Station robbery, officers obtained a vehicle description used by the suspect to flee the scene. Officers observed the vehicle fleeing from the area of Summit Service Station shortly after the robbery and followed the vehicle into Prichard's jurisdiction.

Once in Prichard, officers initiated a traffic stop of the vehicle and three occupants fled from the vehicle on foot. One suspect, identified as Robert Vail (32) was apprehended following the foot pursuit.

The other two suspects were not apprehended and investigation remains continuous into their identities. Suspect Vail was transported to Headquarters where he was questioned in relation to the Robbery incidents. At this time, investigation has revealed that Robert Vail was an active participant in the Circle K and Summit Service Station robberies. Vail has been charged with two counts of Robbery First Degree. This investigation remains continuous and further information will be disseminated as it becomes available.

Corporal Charles Bagsby Jr.

Public Information Office

Office: 208-1715

Fax: 208-1758