Surrey man charged with armed robbery after mini crime spree

A Surrey man has been charged after allegedly trying to rob two convenience stores in Langley using an imitation gun.

Police were called around 11:30 a.m. PT, April 7to the Walnut Grove Market after reports of a man going into the store and demanding cashwhileshowing a gun. No money was obtained and the man was seen driving away in a white pickup truck.

More than half an hour later, a second gun-involved robbery was reported at the Husky in Fort Langley but policesay no money was obtained.

Shortly after, police say an officer saw the truck speeding northbound around 72Avenueand200Street. The vehicle veered into oncoming traffic and was abandoned north of 80thAvenue.Witnesses say a man ranfrom the truck to a hiding spot in some nearby bushes.

Mitchell Guiel, 21, was arrested and has been charged withtwo counts of armed robbery, two counts of using an imitation firearm and dangerous operation of a motor vehicle.

Guiel will remainin custody until his next court appearance on Wednesday.