Arrests Made in Montclair Armed Robbery; Teen Suspects Linked to Multi-Town Crime Spree

Montclair, NJ – June 10, 2025, 5:18 PM EDT – Authorities have arrested two teenage suspects in connection with an armed robbery that took place on June 1 in Montclair, with a third suspect still at large. The incident, which targeted a woman walking her dog, has been tied to a series of similar crimes across multiple towns, raising concerns about a broader criminal network.

The robbery occurred around 12:45 p.m. on North Willow Street when the victim was approached by three males exiting a stolen dark-colored Acura TLX. One suspect brandished a handgun and forcibly removed a necklace from the woman’s neck before the group fled toward Glenridge Avenue. The vehicle was later found abandoned in Jersey City, where it was linked to armed robberies in Union, Elizabeth, and Jersey City.

On June 9, the Montclair Police Department, working with the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, announced the arrests of Wesley A. Garcia, 18, and Kirvin De La Rosa, 19, both from Jersey City. The suspects face serious charges, including first-degree robbery, conspiracy to commit armed robbery, unlawful possession of a weapon, receiving stolen property, and eluding law enforcement. A third suspect, believed to be the driver, remains at large, and authorities are actively seeking public assistance.

Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II and Montclair Police Chief Todd M. Conforti emphasized the collaborative effort that led to the arrests, highlighting the use of the stolen vehicle as a key clue. The incident has sparked safety concerns among Montclair residents, particularly those who frequent the area. The public is encouraged to contact the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office tips line at 1-877-TIPS-4EC or 1-877-847-7432, with all calls kept confidential.

The connection to other towns suggests a possible pattern of organized crime involving young offenders. While details on the additional robberies remain limited, the recovery of the vehicle in Jersey City points to a potential hub for such activities. Law enforcement continues to investigate, aiming to apprehend the remaining suspect and uncover the full scope of the crime spree.

Local news outlets, including TAPinto Montclair and Montclair Local, have covered the story extensively, while X posts from accounts like @MontclairTAP and @RLSMetro have kept the community informed. As the investigation unfolds, residents are urged to remain vigilant and support efforts to ensure safety in the region.

Sources

•  TAPinto Montclair - Arrests Made in Montclair Armed Robbery; Teen Suspects Tied to Multi-Town Crime

•  Montclair Local - Two Jersey City Men Charged in Daytime Armed Robbery in Montclair

•  NorthJersey.com - Jersey City men accused of armed robbery in Montclair NJ

•  Patch.com - 2 Arrests In Montclair Armed Robbery, Suspect Still At Large: Prosecutors

•  X - @MontclairTAP - Armed Robbery of Montclair Resident Walking Dog

•  X - @RLSMetro - Two Jersey City Men Arrested in Montclair Armed Robbery