Christopher Ben Melendrez arrested, two suspects sought in Carlsbad armed robbery
Christopher Ben Melendrez has been arrested in a Carlsbad armed robbery, and two other suspects are still being sought, police say. A gunpoint holdup on a street in Carlsbad led to a mini bike theft, and investigators now want two more people in custody.
Officers went to the 600 block of Prospect Street on September 18 in response to an armed robbery. Police say three suspects, two males and one female, held a victim at gunpoint and stole a mini bike.
Melendrez has been arrested in connection with the case, according to police. Sam Chavez and Daniella Samaniego remain on the run.
Police said both suspects are assumed to be armed and dangerous. Anyone with information on their whereabouts should contact 911.
What police ask of the public
Detectives are asking residents and business owners near Prospect Street to review any video they may have. Tips can be passed through 911.
The Carlsbad Police Department is the lead agency in the investigation. Carlsbad is the county seat of Eddy County in southeastern New Mexico.
An armed robbery is generally treated under New Mexico law as a violent felony carrying a potential prison sentence upon conviction.
