Wilmington, Del. – A shoplifting attempt at a Royal Farms store took a dangerous turn when a suspect returned with a box cutter, escalating the situation into an armed robbery.
Delaware State Police reported that on March 14 at 12:07 p.m., troopers responded to a Royal Farms located at 1031 South Market Street. Their investigation revealed that Luis Andino, 26, of New Castle, attempted to steal a fountain drink and concealed merchandise before trying to leave without paying.
A store employee confronted Andino, who initially left but then returned armed with a box cutter, engaging in a heated argument. The situation quickly turned aggressive when Andino threw the drink at the employee before attempting to leave again. However, he returned once more, this time brandishing the weapon and directly confronting the worker. A physical struggle ensued before police arrived and took Andino into custody.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported among employees or customers.
Andino was transported to Troop 2, where he was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 2 and later committed to Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on a $25,000 cash bond.
