BB Gun Didn’t Scare Motel Clerk, Who Twice Refused Demands in Robbery Bid

A Rodeway Inn clerk refused a gunman’s order to hand over money Friday night when he realized the would-be robber wielded only a BB gun, authorities said.

La Mesa police responded to a report of the attempted robbery about 9:50 p.m. at the Rodeway, 4210 Spring St., said a press release.

While a would-be robber entered the lobby office, an accomplice stayed outside the front door acting as a lookout, police said.

The inside man tried to kick the office door open but failed, police said. He then stood in front of the check-in desk, pointed a handgun at the clerk and demanded money.

“The clerk refused to hand over any money because he realized the suspect was holding a BB gun,” police said. The same gunman demanded money a second time and the clerk refused again.

He then gave up on the robbery and ran out the front doors. Both men were last seen running west through the parking lot toward Gateside Road.

Police said the would-be robbers were described thusly:

Suspect #1:  Black male, mid 20s, 6 feet 1, 175 pounds, with a thin build.  He was wearing a black hooded sweatshirt, black jeans and black shoes.  He was armed with a black BB gun with a brown handle.  The suspect concealed his identity with the hood of his sweatshirt. 

Suspect #2:  Black male, mid 20s, 6-0, 185 pounds, with a stocky build.  He was wearing a red T-shirt, red shorts, white socks and black shoes.  He concealed his identity with a purple towel wrapped around his face.     
 
Anyone with information on this case or others is asked to call the La Mesa Police Department at 619-667-1400.

You may also call Crime Stoppers’ anonymous toll-free tip line 888-580-TIPS (or sdcrimestoppers.com). You can remain anonymous, and be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to an arrest in this case.