HAZEL PARK (WWJ) — Two suspects are in custody and at least four others are still on the run after allegedly kidnapping a security guard and breaking into a marijuana business in Hazel Park.
It all happened around 1:30 in the morning on Friday, Aug. 8 at the HP Lab Group Processing Center on John R, just north of 8 Mile Road, according to Hazel Park police.
A Hazel Park police officer was on patrol in the area when she spotted a cloud of debris coming from the building — and then saw a U-Haul truck fleeing the scene as she approached, officials said. The officer then turned and followed the truck and saw the rear cargo door open with a person that appeared to be strapped inside.
Officers chased the truck on surface streets before it eventually came to a stop near Newport and Camden in Detroit. The suspects got out of the truck and ran. Two of them were taken into custody, while at least four others got away. They remain at-large.
Other officers responded to the building, where they found a security guard who said he had been sitting in his car outside the business when the armed suspects walked up and pointed guns at him. He told police they dragged him out of his car, disarmed him and duct taped his hands and mouth.
The guard told authorities the suspects then put him back into his car and drove him a short distance away. He eventually freed himself and walked back to the parking lot.
Authorities say no one was injured during the incident, which remains under investigation.
About 40 THC vape cartridges were recovered, but it was not clear if the other suspects had other products.
Two men — 36-year-old Michael Allen Hopson and 24-year-old Michael Lamont Robinson — have each been charged with unlawful imprisonment — a 15-year felony — and breaking and entering, a 10-year felony.
Hazel Park police officials say at least 4 other suspects are still outstanding. Anyone with information about the case is being asked to call the Hazel Park Police Department at 248-542-6161.