Three Baltimore businesses robbed hours apart, suspects may have been teens

Three Baltimore businesses were robbed within hours of each other overnight, and investigators are looking into whether the same three suspects were responsible.

Baltimore Police say three masked suspects dressed in dark clothing entered each business, claimed they were armed, and demanded money. The robberies happened between 11:24 p.m. Wednesday and 2:33 a.m. Thursday.

The first robbery occurred at the Royal Farms in the 1100 block of West 41st Street. Less than an hour later, Valentino’s Restaurant in the 6600 block of Harford Road was targeted. The third robbery happened at the 7-Eleven in the 600 block of West 33rd Street around 2:30 a.m.

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John Mastro, a manager at Valentino’s Restaurant, says the suspects went behind the counter and demanded money from employees, making off with an entire cash register and cash from two others. He estimates the business lost several thousand dollars.

“The fact that they get away with a lot of little crimes like that in Baltimore is just out of control,” Mastro told FOX45.

According to Mastro, the suspects appeared to be teenagers. Police dispatch audio obtained by FOX45 also described three suspects who looked like juveniles, wearing dark clothing and masks.

Police have not officially confirmed the suspects’ ages or whether the three robberies are connected. However, investigators say the striking similarities suggest the crimes may be related.

For Mastro, the concern extends beyond the financial losses. He believes juvenile crime and a lack of accountability are taking a toll on Baltimore businesses and their employees.

“It just seems like it’s the same things happening over and over,” Mastro said. “People are scared enough to come into Baltimore, and when they see the local businesses that are struggling because of the crime, that makes it tough for everybody.”

So far, no arrests have been announced. Baltimore Police say all three investigations remain active and ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact detectives at 410-366-6341.

This post was originally published on Fox 45 by Sinclair Media Group.