Winchester Police Investigate Armed Robbery and Suspect Arrested

Published on May 09, 2026

WINCHESTER, Va. — The Winchester Police Department arrested a suspect Saturday morning following an armed robbery that led to a vehicle pursuit involving multiple law enforcement agencies.

On May 9, at approximately 10:11 a.m., officers responded to the 1000 block of Woodstock Lane for a reported armed robbery. The victim advised that a male suspect displayed a knife and stole his wallet before fleeing.

During the investigation, officers identified the suspect and the vehicle involved. Deputies with the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office located the vehicle and attempted a traffic stop. The suspect fled, prompting a brief vehicle pursuit during which multiple vehicles were struck.

The pursuit ended near Featherbed Lane and South Pleasant Valley Road, where the suspect, identified as Michael Anthony Richards, was taken into custody. He was charged with the following:

  • 46.2-817 Felony Eluding
  • 46.2-821 Failure to obey stop sign
  • 46.2-852 Reckless driving
  • 46.2-894 Felony Hit and run
  • 46.2-896 Misdemeanor Hit and run
  • 46.2-300 Driving without license
  • 46.2-707 No insurance
  • 18.2-57 Assault on Law Enforcement Officer
  • 18.2-47 Abduction
  • 18.2-137 Destruction of property

Several individuals were transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The Frederick County Sheriff’s Office and Virginia State Police assisted the Winchester Police Department during the incident.

 

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