Chilliwack RCMP arrest robbery suspect, request public’s help to identify second suspect

CHILLIWACK RCMP arrested one person and are asking the public’s assistance to identify a second person in a photograph taken from a security camera as police investigate a pair of armed robberies.

Shortly after 2 a.m. on April 27, Chilliwack RCMP responded to a report of an armed robbery that occurred at a convenience store in the 45000-block of 1st Avenue. Investigators on scene determined a man allegedly armed with a knife entered the store, demanded money from the till, and then ran away after receiving a small amount of cash. Investigators immediately broadcasted the suspect’s description to patrolling officers; however, police could not locate the person.

Police responded to a second report of an armed robbery at the same store just after mid-night on April 29, when two men allegedly armed with a knife ran off with a small amount of cash. Officers reinforced by the Lower Mainland District Integrated Police Dog Service (IPDS) quickly cordoned off the area where police located and arrested a 29-year-old-man from Chilliwack but could not locate the second suspect.

William Christofer Cowdery is charged robbery and disguise with intent to commit offence. He remains in custody pending a court date this month.

Description of second suspect:
* white male
* Wearing a black jacket, and black and white shoes.
“As RCMP continue our investigation, we are reaching out to the public for assistance to identify the second suspect associated to the robbery reported to police on April 29,” said Cpl. Mike Rail on Monday.

Chilliwack RCMP urge anyone with information to identify the individual to contact police at 604-792-4611 or, should they wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).