Two suspects arrested in string of deadly robberies at California 7-Eleven stores
The two California suspects are accused for robbing seven 7-Eleven stores on July 11
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Authorities said on Friday that they've arrested two suspects for the series of deadly robberies at 7-Eleven convenience stores across southern California. The crime spree occurred in various California counties over 5 hours.
Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer announced the arrests of Malik Donyae Patt, 20, and Jason Lamont Payne, 44, at a press conference on Friday.
The alleged attacks took place on July 11, the convenience store chain's anniversary. Seven 7/11 stores were attacked in Orange County, California leaving three dead and three wounded.
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"We are grateful that the Orange County District Attorney has announced local law enforcement has apprehended suspects related to the recent violent incidents," 7-Eleven said in a statement.
The attacks prompted the company to urge its stores to close as a safety precaution. The image of one of the men was captured on surveillance, which showed the suspect's face partly covered by a mask, was widely shared.
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7-Eleven also offered $100,000 for anyone providing information about the attacks leading to an arrest.
Los Angeles police Deputy Chief Alan Hamilton says a fatal shooting that occurred on July 9 was linked to the series of attacks at 7-Eleven stores two days later.
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Police said Malik Patt is believed to be the suspect seen in surveillance images from the various stores; he is also believed to be the shooter.
"This was a reign of terror, to be thinking you go to a convenience store, donut shop, sandwich shop, and to get shot in the face. To call your loved ones with your last gasp for breath. Or to be a clerk behind the cash register just helping another customer because you are working a job and trying to get back on your feet because you’ve been through the school of hard knocks, you’ve been an addict, and you're working at a 7-Eleven because they’ve given you a chance to resurrect your life and then somebody comes in and feigns a transaction and shoots you and kills you," said Spitzer.
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Charges against the two suspects are expected to be filed Monday. Both were booked at the Santa Ana Police Department.