San Benito, Texas – Two men were taken into custody after a violent robbery attempt outside a Dollar Tree store in San Benito left a woman injured and shaken. The incident occurred on February 9, 2026, prompting a swift response from the San Benito Police Department, which resulted in the suspects’ arrest within a short time frame.
Incident Overview
According to police, the robbery attempt unfolded in the parking area of a Dollar Tree store located at 850 W. Highway 77. Investigators said the suspects targeted a woman who was seated inside her vehicle, attempting to forcefully remove her in order to steal the car. When the victim refused to comply, the situation escalated into physical violence.
Officers later confirmed that the suspects fled the scene on foot before law enforcement arrived, triggering an immediate search in the surrounding area.
Timeline of Events
Police reports indicate that officers from the department’s Patrol Division were dispatched shortly after the incident was reported. Upon arrival, officers gathered witness statements and descriptions of the suspects, which proved crucial in the rapid identification and arrest process.
Within minutes, officers located one suspect at a nearby business, while a second suspect was found hiding in a residential neighborhood close to the store. Both men were taken into custody without further incident.
Details from Police Officials
Authorities identified the suspects as Omar Castillo and Carlos Mejorado. Police stated that both men showed signs of intoxication at the time of their arrest.
“The suspects approached the victim while she was seated in her vehicle and demanded she exit the car,” police said in a statement. “When she refused, the suspects assaulted her, striking her multiple times in the face and abdomen.”
Police emphasized that the quick arrests were made possible due to clear witness descriptions and coordinated patrol efforts.
Key Facts of the Case
- Incident Date: February 9, 2026
- Location: 850 W. Highway 77, San Benito
- Suspects: Omar Castillo and Carlos Mejorado
- Charges: Robbery (second-degree felony) and public intoxication
- Bond Amount: $350,000 each for robbery charges
- Victim: Adult female, assaulted but not fatally injured
Witness Accounts
Several witnesses in the area reportedly observed the suspects fleeing on foot after the assault. Their descriptions helped officers narrow down the search area quickly. Police credited the cooperation of bystanders for preventing the suspects from escaping the vicinity.
Although the victim’s identity has not been released, authorities confirmed she sustained injuries from the attack and was visibly shaken following the incident.
Additional Context
Robberies involving attempted vehicle thefts have become an increasing concern for law enforcement across Texas, particularly in retail parking lots where drivers may be distracted or alone. Police officials noted that criminals often target such locations due to easy access routes and the assumption of limited security.
Second-degree felony robbery charges carry significant penalties under Texas law, including lengthy prison sentences if convicted. The high bond amounts in this case reflect the violent nature of the offense and the risk posed to public safety.
Public Safety Awareness
Law enforcement officials are urging residents to remain vigilant, especially when entering or exiting vehicles in commercial areas. Recommended safety measures include:
- Locking vehicle doors immediately upon entry
- Being aware of surroundings before parking
- Avoiding distractions such as mobile phones
- Reporting suspicious behavior to authorities promptly
Police also encouraged businesses to ensure parking areas are well-lit and monitored where possible.
Conclusion
The arrests of Omar Castillo and Carlos Mejorado underscore the importance of rapid police response and community cooperation in violent crime cases. While the victim survived the ordeal, the incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers faced in everyday public spaces.
Call to Action
Incidents like this highlight the need for continued awareness and cooperation between residents and law enforcement. Share your experiences in the comments below.
