Police Search for Armed Teen Suspect Following Gas Station Robberies in Austin, Minnesota

AUSTIN, Minnesota — Police in the southeastern Minnesota city of Austin are actively searching for a teenage suspect following an armed robbery at a local gas station. The incident, which occurred on January 8, 2024, involved a young male suspect who brandished a firearm and demanded money from the store employee before fleeing the scene.

According to the Austin Police Department, the suspect is described as a teenager who brandished a gun during the heist. Officers arrived shortly after the alarm was raised, but the suspect had already fled. Law enforcement is currently reviewing security camera footage to identify the suspect. The incident is part of a series of gas station robberies that have prompted police to ask the community for assistance in identifying the individual responsible.

In addition to this robbery, local authorities are investigating other similar incidents in Southeast Minnesota to determine if they are linked. Police have released descriptions and are asking anyone with information to contact the Austin Police Department at their non-emergency number or leave a tip anonymously. Local business owners are advised to keep their premises well-lit and report any suspicious behavior immediately.