On July 16, 2016, at approximately 4:30 p.m., officers were dispatched to Ralphs supermarket located in the 8600 block of Firestone Blvd regarding a robbery which had just occurred. According to store security, a male Hispanic had entered the store, placed numerous items in a shopping cart, and then left the store without paying.
The Loss Prevention Officer from Ralphs followed the suspect into the parking lot and attempted to stop him from fleeing; at which time, the suspect pulled a gun out and told the Loss Prevention Officer to "Get Back." Fearing for his safety, the loss prevention officer returned to the store and called police, as the suspect entered a vehicle and sped off. A short time later, officers received information that the suspect had been involved in a "hit & run" traffic collision
while fleeing the supermarket and was observed entering a home in the 8700 block of Cavel Street, Downey.
Downey Police Officers responded to the location and surrounded the home, during which time they made several attempts to make contact with the suspect. Believing the suspect had barricaded himself inside, a few residents in close proximity to the suspect's residence were evacuated as a precaution. The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department’s Special Enforcement Bureau (S.E.B.) responded to assist the Downey Police Department in an attempt
to bring the situation to a safe and peaceful conclusion.
At approximately 11:47 p.m., the suspect surrendered to S.E.B. deputies without incident.Taken into custody was, Gerson Acosta-Martinez, a 35 year old Downey resident. He was transported to the Downey Police station where he was booked for armed robbery.
Anyone with information is encouraged to call the Downey Police Department at (562) 904-2308 or Detectives Ron Gee at (562) 904-2331 or Detective Steve Gilley at (562) 904-2335.
To provide information ANONYMOUSLY, call Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS or by texting the letters TIPLA, plus, to CRIMES (274637) or by using the website.
Press inquiries may be directed to Lieutenant Alex Irizabal at (562) 904-2369 or Sergeant Kevin McCaster at (562) 904-2304.
