RUSKIN, Fla. – The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has arrested three suspects connected to an overnight robbery and shooting incident in Ruskin.
Shortly after 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, December 9, a victim arrived at a home on the 500 block of 7th Avenue NE in Ruskin to meet with known individuals. While at the home, two known residents robbed the victim at gunpoint, striking the victim several times during the incident. The victim was ultimately able to flee the property and report the incident at an HCSO District Office.
Deputies responded to the home and attempted to locate the suspects. Upon arrival, they heard multiple shots fired towards them from the property. The deputies immediately took cover, announcing themselves as HCSO and demanding the suspects’ exit the home. A short time later, Miguel Mendiola, 17, and Gerardo Rios, 20, exited the home without incident. Deputies located an AR-15 style rifle, a 40mm pistol and marijuana inside the home. Bullet holes were later discovered in a mailbox post. No deputies were injured during the incident.
Mendiola was charged with six counts of aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer with a deadly weapon, robbery with a firearm and petit theft. Rios was also charged with six counts of aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer with a deadly weapon, in addition to possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia and violation of probation.
A third suspect, Isaiah Hernandez, 30, who was involved in the initial robbery, but left the home before the shooting incident, was located Thursday, December 10, and arrested during a traffic stop. Hernandez faces charges of robbery with a firearm, felon in possession of a firearm and petit theft.
“The life of crime these individuals were living caught up to them last night when our deputies showed up at their door,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “I am thankful that none of our deputies were hurt after being shot at by these dangerous individuals who have now been taken off of our streets.” Booking photos for all three suspects can be found below.
