Two Arrested Following Strong-Arm Robbery At Barstow Business

BARSTOW, Calif. (VVNG.com) — Two people were arrested after a reported strong-arm robbery at a business Friday afternoon in Barstow.

The incident occurred on April 17, 2026, at approximately 1:45 p.m., when officers responded to the 1300 block of E. Main Street regarding a disturbance that was later determined to be a robbery.

According to the written statement from the Barstow Police Department, officers learned that “a male and female suspect entered the business, concealed merchandise in backpacks, and assaulted two employees when confronted.” Both suspects fled the scene in a gold SUV prior to officers arriving.

Police reviewed surveillance footage and later located the suspect vehicle in the 900 block of Lassen Street. During contact with the occupants, officers discovered merchandise from the business “in plain view inside the vehicle,” according to the statement.

Officers detained 51-year-old Ruben Aguilar and 52-year-old Arlene Villarreal, both Barstow residents, and positively identified them as the suspects. Both were arrested and booked at the San Bernardino County High Desert Detention Center in Adelanto for PC 211 – Robbery.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Corporal Jose Sanchez at (760) 256-2211 or by email at jsanchez@barstowca.org. Those wishing to remain anonymous may provide information by calling the WE-TIP hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (274609) or visiting www.wetip.com.

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