Suspect sought in Tunitas Creek Beach robbery

San Mateo County sheriff’s officials are looking for a man who robbed two victims at gunpoint at Tunitas Creek Beach, south of Half Moon Bay, earlier this month.

On Nov. 18 at about 5 p.m., the suspect approached two female victims, brandished a small handgun and demanded their cellphones, sheriff’s officials said.

Fearing for their safety, the victims gave the suspect a backpack containing their personal belongings. The suspect took the bag and fled on foot toward the beach parking lot, sheriff’s officials said.

Deputies responded to the scene and checked the area, but were unable to locate the suspect.

The suspect was described as a heavy-set Hispanic man in his 40s, 5 feet 5 inches tall, wearing a dark-colored beanie, orange ski goggles, a bulky green jacket and dark pants. He also spoke with a heavy accent, sheriff’s officials said.

Although there have not been any other reports of incidents in the area, sheriff’s officials are asking visitors to be aware of their surroundings and avoid the beach after sundown.

Anyone with information about this armed robbery is asked to contact Detective John Carroll at (650) 259-2313 or jcarroll@smcgov.org, or call the Anonymous Tip Line at 1-800-547-2700.