Two Robbery Suspects Flee Athens Mobile Phone Store, Brandish Handgun at Clerk in Parking Lot

ATHENS, GA — Local authorities are requesting help from the public after a robbery at an Athens mobile phone store escalated into a dangerous confrontation in the parking lot on Saturday afternoon, January 25, 2025.

According to the Athens-Clarke County Police Department (ACCPD), officers were dispatched to the retail store following a report of an active robbery and weapon brandishing. Store employees reported that two unidentified individuals entered the business and began browsing the display cases. After a short period, the suspects grabbed high-value merchandise and ran out of the front entrance.

In an effort to gather information for the police, a store clerk followed the suspects out into the parking lot. However, the situation quickly turned hostile. Before entering their getaway vehicle, one of the suspects turned, drew a handgun from their waistband, and pointed it at the clerk, warning them to back off. Fearing for their life, the employee retreated inside the store while the suspects sped away.

ACCPD officers arrived shortly thereafter and established a perimeter, but a search of the immediate area yielded no results. Fortunately, no shots were fired, and no injuries were reported in connection with the incident.

Investigators are currently reviewing security footage from the business and neighboring shops in the plaza. The suspects are described as two young males wearing dark hoodies. Anyone with information is asked to contact Athens-Clarke County detectives or the Crime Stoppers tip line at 706-723-3300.