Fountain Valley police arrest man on suspicion of stealing over $6,000 worth of cellphones, 2 others sought

Fountain Valley police arrested one man this week on suspicion of taking $6,696 worth in merchandise from a cellphone store and are asking the public’s help in finding the two other suspects who fled the scene.

Albert Alexander Murkinson of San Jacinto was arrested Tuesday evening after allegedly stealing 11 iPhones and watches from a T-Mobile store at the Shops at Costco Plaza, according to a news release.

At about 6:30 p.m., officers saw Murkinson and two others damaging, then leaving the store. When the suspects noticed the officers, they dropped the merchandise and ran away through the parking lot, police said.

Officers chased after one suspect on foot about a quarter mile toward Talbert Avenue and arrested Murksinon after he tried hiding in nearby hedges.

Murkinson was booked at Orange County Jail with bail set for $20,000 for burglary, conspiracy to commit burglary, resisting arrest and felony vandalism, according to the release.

Police said all merchandise was recovered in the area, but suspects caused about $1,000 in damages to the store’s display cases.

Witnesses told police they saw the remaining suspects leave the area in an older black Nissan Maxima.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact FVPD at (714) 593 - 4485.

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