Three held in armed robbery

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Three suspects accused of taking part in an early-morning armed robbery Thursday were arrested at a Red Wing residence.

The men, Michael James Johnson, 21, Red Wing; Orlando Abrego, 21, St. Paul; and DeAngelo Hardin, 20, St. Paul, were being held on suspicion of armed robbery and second-degree assault.

Police said the suspects ambushed and assaulted two people in the 100 block of West Sixth Street.

Officers were called at 2:15 a.m. for reports of a fight in the area. They found a 22-year-old woman and a 56-year-old man, both of Red Wing, at the scene.

The woman said one of the suspects held a handgun to her head during the episode. It was later discovered by police to be a BB gun.

Meanwhile, other men in the group punched and kicked the male victim, who received cuts on his forehead. The woman said she was punched twice in the face. Neither victim requested medical treatment.

Police said the suspects took money from the man. The cash was Mexican currency, according to initial reports.

Police found and confiscated the gun, which was left at the scene next to the male victim.

Investigators learned the suspects had entered a residence at 111 W. Sixth St. after fleeing the scene. An occupant inside opened the door, and police entered.

The three suspects were found inside and were arrested. Three females also inside the residence were cited for illegal consumption.

The investigation continued on Thursday. It was not clear whether formal charges would be filed today or next week. Authorities said the suspects were expected to make their initial court appearance today.

Tags: news, robbery