Suspect at large after multiple Cambria County business robberies, burglary

CAMBRIA COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ) — Troopers are searching for a suspect after two different businesses were robbed overnight and and a third was burglarized in the Portage area.

The individual, pictured below, is a suspect in an investigation after state police in Troop A, Ebensburg, were called to a robbery-in-progress at Family Dollar on Portage Street around 7:36 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 15.

Investigators said the suspect walked into the store at 7:32 p.m. and asked for all the money in the register. He allegedly gestured to employees that he had a weapon in his pocket. He then left with $270 in cash that he was able to snatch from the open register before Troopers arrived.

Troopers were later called to Portage Vapor and Cigar on Main Street after the same suspect allegedly walked in and attempted a hold-up. Troopers said the employee refused to comply and went for his protective firearm, causing the suspect to leave.

Troopers noted that the suspect’s red Fiat hatchback was caught on Sheetz security footage heading north on SR 53.

While investigating, troopers learned that the same man allegedly entered Lucky Laundy on Munster Road and attempted to break into Skillz machines with a hammer. The Skillz company was able to communicate with the man through the camera system, causing the man to drop the hammer and leave the business.

The suspect, who is described as a white, non-Hispanic male, approximately 50-60 years of age, with gray facial stubble, then fled in a red, two-door Fiat hatchback. It was also noted that the (middle) third brake light on the Fiat only lights up on the right half.

Anyone who may have information is asked to contact Trooper Stephanie Smith at 814-472-1653.

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