Attempted Armed Robbery at Rocia Store in Punta Gorda Foiled by Burglar Bars and Quick Police Response

An attempted armed robbery was thwarted yesterday at Rocia Store on Periwinkle Street, located in the Indianville, Punta Gorda. At approximately 10 in the morning, two men entered the store with their faces covered with cloth. One of the suspects struck store employee Margarita Cus with what appeared to be a pistol, causing her to fall to the ground. The suspects then attempted to access the area behind the counter, but their efforts were hindered by burglar bars installed in the store. A second worker, Rosa Ack, quickly alerted the police. Upon responding, police apprehended the two suspects, who had fled the scene. Upon their capture, police discovered a small bag containing an imitation .38 revolver. The suspects, identified as 18-year-old Ian Shol of the Cerro Road area and 19-year-old Danique Nicholas of the Magoon area, are currently in police custody. The investigation is ongoing.