Two arrested, one at large, after attempted Shutterbug camera store robbery in Santa Rosa

Three teenage intruders - including one armed with a handgun - who attempted to steal photography equipment Thursday from the Shutterbug Camera Store in Santa Rosa were thwarted when employees tackled them before they escaped with the loot, according to Santa Rosa police.

Two of the subjects were arrested, but one got away empty-handed despite the swift arrival of law enforcement, store manager Ted Valencia said.

The 10:45 a.m. incident unfolded when an 18-year-old man and two juveniles wearing backpacks and hooded clothing entered the Santa Rosa Avenue store and went directly to a display of lenses, several of which were valued more than $1,000, police Sgt. Kyle Philp said.

They began loading up photo equipment, but an observant employee called out to them to stop and grabbed at one of the suspects, Philp said. Several of the other eight workers inside then rushed them as they bolted for the door, he said.

A melee ensued and store employees apprehended two of the would-be thieves, including one who lost his grip on a 9mm pistol when he was ?tackled, Philp said.

An employee also was bitten on the forearm in the struggle, and one of the robbers managed to force his way outside and fled. It was unclear if he got away on foot or not, but police assume he left in a vehicle, Philp said.

The two who were detained were arrested for suspicion of armed robbery and booked into jail and juvenile hall, respectively. They were identified as Nelson Green, 18, of Oakland, and a 14-year-old juvenile, also of Oakland. His name was not released because he is a minor.

The third suspect was described by police as a black male 13-to-16 years of age, 5-foot-4 inches to 5-foot-7 inches tall, and weighing between 95 and 120 pounds. He was wearing a black sweatshirt and blue jeans.

Police have the incident on surveillance video and are offering a $2,500 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction through the Sonoma County Alliance “Take Back Our Community Program.”

Anyone with information about the incident can call the violent crimes investigation team at 707-543-3590. Callers can remain anonymous, police said.

You can reach Staff Writer Mary Callahan at 707-521-5249. On Twitter ?@MaryCallahanB.