Fountain, Colorado – A 32-year-old man is in custody after police say he robbed a liquor store at gunpoint in Fountain, threatened an employee, and fled in a stolen vehicle before being tracked down through a coordinated multi-agency operation.
Robbery Reported at Mesa Ridge Parkway Liquor Store
According to the Fountain Police Department, the incident occurred at approximately 10 p.m. Tuesday at Klix Wine and Spirits, located along Mesa Ridge Parkway.
Investigators said the suspect, later identified as Tyson Dunckel, entered the store, grabbed multiple bottles of liquor, and ran out without paying. When a store employee followed him into the parking lot, police said the situation escalated.
Authorities reported that Dunckel pulled out a firearm, pointed it at the employee, and issued a threat before fleeing the scene in a vehicle.
No injuries were reported during the confrontation.
Stolen Vehicle Identified Using License Plate Technology
Following the robbery, Fountain police worked with several regional law-enforcement agencies to locate the suspect. Officers used a Flock License Plate Reader system, which helped identify the vehicle involved in the crime.
Police confirmed the vehicle had been reported stolen in Colorado Springs.
Multiple agencies assisted in the investigation, including:
- Fountain Police Department Directed Investigation Community Engagement (D.I.C.E.) Unit
- Colorado Springs Police Department Real Time Crime Center
- Metro Motor Vehicle Theft Unit (MVT)
After confirming the vehicle’s status and suspect identity, D.I.C.E. detectives obtained an arrest warrant for Dunckel.
Suspect Located the Following Day
At around 1 p.m. Wednesday, officers spotted Dunckel driving the stolen vehicle. Due to the suspect being armed, police requested assistance from the Colorado Springs Police Department Tactical Enforcement Unit (TEU) along with a drone unit.
The drone team tracked the vehicle to the 3700 block of Betty Drive, near the intersection of North Academy Boulevard and Austin Bluffs Parkway.
Police said Dunckel exited the vehicle and entered a nearby business while wearing a paintball mask and ski goggles, raising further concern among responding officers.
Attempted Escape and Arrest
When Dunckel exited the business and began walking back toward the vehicle, TEU officers moved in to make contact, according to police.
At that point, authorities said Dunckel ran from officers, but fell during the attempted escape. During the fall, a firearm reportedly fell from his waistband, allowing officers to safely take him into custody.
Police confirmed the weapon was recovered at the scene.
Charges Filed Against the Suspect
Dunckel was transported to the El Paso County Criminal Justice Center, where he was formally booked. Jail records show he is facing multiple felony charges, including:
- Aggravated robbery
- Motor vehicle theft
- Possession of a weapon by a previous offender
- Menacing
Investigators have not released information regarding court dates or bond conditions as of Wednesday evening.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Safety Reminder
The Fountain Police Department credited the inter-agency coordination and technology-assisted investigation for the quick arrest, emphasizing how license plate reader systems and real-time data sharing can help resolve violent crimes more efficiently.
Police also reminded business owners and employees that personal safety should always come first during robberies and advised witnesses to avoid pursuing suspects when weapons are involved.
Anyone with additional information related to the case is encouraged to contact the Fountain Police Department or local authorities.
Conclusion
What began as a late-night liquor store theft escalated into an armed robbery and vehicle pursuit, ending less than 24 hours later with a suspect in custody. Authorities say the case highlights the importance of coordinated law-enforcement efforts in keeping communities safe.
If you witnessed this incident or have experience dealing with retail crime in your area, share your thoughts in the comments below.
