Bear, Delaware – A second suspect has been taken into custody in connection with an armed robbery that occurred in May at a busy shopping center parking lot in Bear. Authorities say the case involved the alleged display of a handgun and the theft of a vehicle during a daytime confrontation.
The latest arrest follows months of investigation by Delaware State Police, who identified two men believed to be responsible for the incident at Salem Center.
Incident Overview
According to Delaware State Police, the robbery was reported on May 19 at approximately 2:15 p.m. at the Salem Center, 1693 Pulaski Highway. Troopers responded to reports of an armed robbery in the parking lot of the shopping plaza, which is typically active during afternoon hours.
Investigators allege that the victim was sitting inside a vehicle when approached by a suspect who initiated an argument. During the confrontation, a second suspect allegedly displayed a handgun, escalating the situation. Authorities said the two suspects worked together to forcibly take the victim’s vehicle before fleeing the scene.
Identification of Suspects
Detectives from the Delaware State Police Troop 2 Criminal Investigations Unit conducted follow-up investigative work in the weeks after the incident. Through surveillance, interviews, and evidence collection, authorities identified Daviel Aviles, 20, of Middletown, and Calvin Williams as suspects in the robbery.
Law enforcement officials stated that members of the Delaware State Police Special Operations Response Team executed a search warrant at Williams’ residence on May 30, taking him into custody without incident.
Second Suspect Turns Himself In
Police confirmed that Daviel Aviles, 20, turned himself in at Troop 2 on February 19. Following his surrender, he was formally charged and processed.
Aviles was arraigned in Justice of the Peace Court 2 on multiple felony charges, including:
- Second-degree robbery (felony)
- Second-degree conspiracy (felony)
Court officials subsequently committed him to the Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on a $20,500 cash bond.
Authorities have not released additional details regarding the status of the stolen vehicle or whether any weapon was recovered during the investigation.
Timeline of Events
The robbery reportedly occurred in the early afternoon at a time when the Salem Center typically sees steady foot and vehicle traffic. After the suspects allegedly fled the scene in the victim’s vehicle, investigators began piecing together information that ultimately led to both arrests.
The first suspect was taken into custody on May 30, approximately 11 days after the incident. The second suspect surrendered several months later on February 19, marking a significant development in the ongoing case.
Public Safety Concerns in Shopping Center Areas
The Salem Center is a frequently visited commercial location, serving shoppers, employees, and nearby residents. Incidents involving weapons in such public areas raise safety concerns due to the potential risk to bystanders.
Law enforcement agencies often emphasize situational awareness in parking lots, especially during confrontations or disputes. Police encourage individuals to:
- Remain alert when entering or exiting vehicles
- Avoid engaging in escalating arguments
- Immediately report suspicious behavior
- Park in well-lit, visible areas
Armed robbery cases, particularly those involving stolen vehicles, can carry significant legal consequences due to the use or display of a weapon during the commission of a crime.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities confirmed that the investigation remains active. Additional details may be released as court proceedings continue and further evidence is reviewed.
Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has additional information related to the case to contact Delaware State Police.
Conclusion
The arrest of a second suspect marks another step forward in the investigation into the May armed robbery at Salem Center in Bear. With both individuals now in custody, the case will proceed through the court system as authorities continue to review evidence.
If you were in the Salem Center area at the time of the incident or have relevant information, law enforcement encourages you to come forward. Share your experiences in the comments below.
