DATE/TIME: Sunday, May 21, 2023, 11:14 p.m.
INCIDENT: Armed Robbery
LOCATION: 73000 block of Twentynine Palms Highway, Twentynine Palms
SUSPECT(S): Tabien Hunt, 22-year-old resident of Twentynine Palms
Michael Claus-Flores, 28-year-old resident of Twentynine Palms
Donald Lawrence, 24-year-old resident of Twentynine Palms
Christopher Zummo, 27-year-old resident of Twentynine Palms
Johnny Nie, 30-year-old resident of Twentynine Palms
VICTIM(S): Confidential
SUMMARY: On Sunday, May 21, 2023, at approximately 11:14 p.m., deputies assigned to the Morongo Basin Station responded to the AM/PM convenience store in the 73000 block of Twentynine Palms Highway, for a report of an armed robbery. During the investigation, deputies learned five male suspects rushed the store and confronted the clerk working behind the counter. As some of the suspects assaulted the clerk, the other suspects stole items within the store. As the robbery progressed, one of the suspects brandished a firearm at the clerk. The suspects fled, just prior to deputies arriving.
Deputies conducted an extensive search of the area. Deputies located three subjects matching the description of the suspects. They were detained pending identification and further investigation. Deputies identified the three as Michael Claus-Flores, the armed suspect, and two of his accomplices, Tabien Hunt and Donald Lawrence. As the deputies continued their investigation, they identified a residence in the 7000 Block of Estrella Avenue as a location of interest. A search warrant was served at the Estrella residence and deputies located two additional suspects - Christopher Zummo and Johnny Nie.
Tabien Hunt, Michael Claus-Flores, Donald Lawrence, Christopher Zummo and Johnny Nie were arrested and charged with PC 211-Armed Robbery, and PC 182-Conspiracy to Commit a Felony. All suspects were booked at the West Valley Detention Center.
This investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information related to this incident is asked to contact Deputy A. Stumbo of the Morongo Basin Station (760)- 366-4175. Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463), or you may leave information at the We-Tip Hotline at www.wetip.com
Refer: Deputy A. Stumbo
Station: Morongo Basin Station
Phone No. 760-366-4175
Case No. 202300767
SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
