Fake gun, real robbery

Madera Police have arrested two men and a juvenile suspected in pair of brazen robberies of a service station and a pedestrian, using what appeared to be a handgun.

According to the Madera Police Department, the three suspects, Eli Solis, John Velez, and a minor whose name has not been released, reportedly entered the Madera Mobil gas station on Gateway Drive on Wednesday. Police said one suspect stole beer by hiding it in his clothing. When he was spotted and confronted by the clerk, the suspect allegedly drew the pistol.

Police said the three suspects then left the store and reportedly mugged a nearby pedestrian.

“They only got some personal belongings of the pedestrian,” said Madera Detective Sgt. Johnny Smith...