Zales robbery in Portofino may be connected to previous robbery at The Woodlands Mall

THE WOODLANDS, Texas -- Montgomery County Communications 911 received a 911 call from a witness who observed 3 black males wearing masks enter the Zale’s Jewelry store located in the Portofino Shopping Center at 19705 I-45 in Shenandoah, Texas. The witness advised it appeared the males were going to rob the store. The witness also advised that one of the black males remained in the vehicle which was a black sport utility vehicle.

The suspect vehicle description was aired to responding law enforcement at which time a Shenandoah Police Officer observed the suspect vehicle south bound on IH 45. At that time a Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office Deputy and a Shenandoah Police Department Officer were able to catch up to the suspect vehicle and attempted to stop the vehicle. The suspect vehicle failed to yield and a short pursuit was initiated. During the pursuit the suspect vehicle struck a citizen vehicle which caused an accident. The citizen received minor injuries and was treated on scene.

The suspect vehicle attempted to enter Interstate Highway 45 main lanes via the grassy media of the frontage road, but struck a tree rendering the suspect vehicle inoperable. Two suspects were taken into custody by the pursuing units. The other two suspects who fled on foot were apprehended shortly thereafter by additional law enforcement officers.

There are unconfirmed reports these suspects were involved in the robbery of the Helzberg Diamond Jewelry Store in the Woodlands Mall. Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes is investigating this information.

All four suspects are currently in custody.