Gas station heists' suspect surrenders

MARPLE TWP., Pa. - April 3, 2010

He was suspected of taking part in a string of gas station heists.

Authorities say he's one of two men suspected of holding up five stores in New Castle, Delaware and Chester counties.

Most recently, the men are wanted for robbing a Sunoco station in Marple Township on Tuesday morning.

Police also released surveillance video on Wednesday, in which you can see the suspects enter a 7-Eleven on Philadelphia Pike in Claymont, armed with guns. The two throw the clerk to the ground and rob the place.

"In this case the victims are coming in an physically grabbing the victim, pushing him to the side, and compelling that person to turn over the money," sai Cpl. Jeffrey Whitmarsh of the Delaware State Police. "All the while the suspects are also armed with a gun."

Two weeks earlier the two robbed a Dollar General store on Naaman's Road.

Then, last Friday, they were captured on video robbing a Lukoil in West Chester. Investigators say one man entered, made sure no one was inside, then waved in his cohort.

"They went in, grabbed the clerk, threatened to shoot the clerk," said Sgt. Louis DeSchullo of the West Chester Police Department. "They robbed the store with cash and phone cards then fled the convenience store."

In all, police have connected the bandits to five robberies in the area. So far no one has been hurt.

Pinder remains in custody at the Delaware County prison on robbery and related charges. /p>

Police are hoping that someone will recognize the other man.

If you have any information you are asked to call 1-800-4-PA-TIPS.

Copyright © 2024 WPVI-TV. All Rights Reserved.