Fountain, Colorado — A man accused of robbing a Fountain liquor store at gunpoint and fleeing in a stolen vehicle was arrested Wednesday afternoon following a coordinated law-enforcement operation involving multiple agencies, according to the Fountain Police Department.
Robbery Reported at Mesa Ridge Parkway Liquor Store
Police said officers were dispatched to Klik Liquor Store on Mesa Ridge Parkway around 10 p.m. Tuesday after receiving reports of a robbery in progress. Investigators stated that an adult male suspect entered the store, grabbed several bottles of liquor, and ran out without paying.
According to police, a store employee followed the suspect into the parking lot, where the situation escalated. Authorities said the suspect pulled out a handgun, threatened the employee, and pointed the weapon directly at him before fleeing the scene in a vehicle.
No injuries were reported during the incident.
Surveillance Video Leads to Suspect Identification
While reviewing surveillance footage from the business, investigators identified the suspect as 32-year-old Tyson Dunckel, whom officers recognized from previous law-enforcement encounters, police said.
Following the identification, Fountain’s Directed Investigation Community Engagement (D.I.C.E.) Unit began working with several partner agencies to locate Dunckel and the vehicle used in the robbery.
Multi-Agency Effort Tracks Stolen Vehicle
Police said the D.I.C.E. Unit partnered with the Colorado Springs Police Department’s Real Time Crime Center (RTCC) and the Metro Motor Vehicle Theft Unit (MVT). Through security footage and vehicle tracking efforts, investigators identified the car seen during the robbery.
Authorities later confirmed the vehicle Dunckel was driving had been reported stolen out of Colorado Springs. Based on the findings, officers obtained an arrest warrant for Dunckel.
Suspect Located Wearing Mask and Goggles
On Wednesday afternoon, law enforcement officers, including Colorado State Parole Officers and Metro detectives, located Dunckel driving the stolen vehicle. Police said officers followed the car to a business located on Betty Drive.
A drone operator assisting the operation spotted the vehicle parked outside the business. Officers observed Dunckel enter the building wearing a paintball mask and ski goggles, raising further concern for public safety, police said.
Foot Chase Ends With Fall and Weapon Discovery
As Dunckel exited the business, tactical enforcement officers moved in to make contact. Police said the suspect attempted to flee on foot but fell a short distance into the pursuit.
During the fall, officers reported that a handgun fell from Dunckel’s waistband onto the ground. He was immediately taken into custody without further incident.
Authorities confirmed the firearm was secured at the scene.
Charges Filed Following Arrest
After his arrest, Dunckel was booked into custody and formally charged with multiple felony offenses, including:
- Aggravated robbery
- Motor vehicle theft
- Possession of a weapon by a previous offender
- Menacing
Police did not immediately release information regarding bond or a court appearance date.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Safety Reminder
The Fountain Police Department stated that the investigation remains ongoing and additional charges could be filed if new evidence emerges. Officials also credited the coordinated response between local, state, and regional units for safely apprehending the suspect without injuries.
Police reminded residents and business owners to avoid confronting suspects during thefts and robberies and to contact law enforcement immediately instead.
Anyone with additional information related to the incident is encouraged to contact the Fountain Police Department.
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