A Susanville man was arrested Thursday morning after his alleged attempt to hold-up the Chevron gas station on Main Street was thwarted by store employees who tackled the would-be robber and kept him subdued until officers could arrive.
At around 9:20 officers from the Susanville Police Department were dispatched to Chevron at 1530 Main Street for an armed robbery that was in progress.
“Prior to arrival, dispatch advised Officers that the suspect was armed with a gun. Upon arrival, officers learned that an attempted robbery had just occurred,” explains Susanville Police Chief Ryan Cochran.
“Upon arrival, Officers observed the owner of the Chevron Gas Station on top of the suspect, holding him down for safety.”
The owner of the establishment notified officers that the gun was still under the suspect and waited for assistance.
Officers were able to safely disarm the suspect, who they identified as 18-year-old Susanville resident Bluestarr Maudie Sue Hefner. He was placed under arrest and officers were able to secure the scene and report that all parties involved were safe without injury.
“During the investigation, it was discovered that Hefner used a Sig Sauer P365 C02BB Pistol to threaten the Chevron clerk to give him money out of the register.”
Before any money was given, the owner of the store observed what was occurring and he apprehended the suspect from behind, taking Hefner to the ground.
Due to the collaborating efforts of the Chevron employees and a witness that was in the store calling 9-1-1, officers arrived on scene in less than two minutes after receiving the dispatch.
Bluestarr Maudie Sue Hefner was arrested for Attempted Robbery, as well as a charge of Resisting Arrest, and has been referred to Lassen County District Attorney Office for prosecution.
“We would like to thank Lassen County Sheriff Office and Lassen County Dispatch for their assistance in the response to this call allowing for such a quick resolution. We would also like to commend the Chevron owner and Chevron employees for their bravery and quick actions to seek help in such a terrifying moment.”
