Rosarito, Baja California – A lone assailant nicknamed El Chaparrito burst into the Coppel store at Plaza Villa Floresta on Sunday afternoon, demanding cash at gunpoint. Witnesses say the man fired a warning shot to force employees behind the counter. When he failed to open the safe, he fled the scene empty-handed.
Armed Robber Holds Up Coppel
After dashing out on foot, the suspect attempted to start his parked motorcycle. When the engine failed, he approached a nearby couple and carjacked their vehicle, firing another shot to push them aside. The driver escaped unharmed, and the robber sped off toward the coastal road.
Municipal police received an emergency call at around 3:15 p.m. and deployed patrol units immediately. Officers spotted a motorcycle matching the description near Boulevard Benito Juárez but lost sight of the vehicle after the suspect switched to the stolen car. Despite an extensive search, authorities have not yet apprehended the man.
Residents reported hearing at least two gunshots. Several cars sustained minor damage when the robber collided with them while fleeing. Investigators estimate the total losses—including the abandoned motorcycle, the hijacked vehicle and damage to store property—at roughly 70,000 pesos.
Investigation Begins in Coppel Robbery
The regional prosecutor’s office has opened a case for armed robbery, illegal weapons use, and vehicle theft. Evidence teams collected shell casings, CCTV footag,e and witness statements. Forensic analysts will also inspect the Coppel counter area and the parking lot for additional clues.
Mayor Araceli Molina, visiting the site in the evening, condemned the attack and pledged increased patrols in tourist areas. She said the municipal government will work with state security forces to boost surveillance and preventive measures around shopping centers.
Local business owners have expressed concern about rising violence. The Rosarito Merchants Association announced plans to install panic buttons and coordinate security training for employees. “We need to protect our customers and staff,” said association president Luis Hernández. “We cannot allow criminals to threaten our community.”
Attorney Javier Cortés, who represents several victims of recent carjackings, urged drivers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior. He recommended slowing down if approached at traffic lights and keeping doors locked.
Stolen Car Found Abandoned
The stolen car was later found abandoned on the outskirts of Rosarito, covered in sand and with flattened tires. Police recovered the vehicle and towed it to the impound lot. Investigators are now tracing the motorcycle parts left at the scene to track the suspect’s network.
As the investigation continues, authorities ask anyone with information or dash-cam footage to contact the Rosarito Municipal Police tip line. Rewards have been offered for data leading to an arrest. Meanwhile, residents and visitors are reminded to stay in well-lit areas, report disturbances immediately and cooperate with law enforcement.
The armed robber holds up Coppel incident highlights ongoing security challenges in Rosarito. With summer crowds still in town, officials say they will intensify efforts to keep public spaces safe and reassure both locals and tourists that Rosarito remains a welcoming destination.
