Buffalo, New York – Buffalo police have arrested a local man in connection with a violent robbery at a vape shop that left two people injured and led to the theft of cash and merchandise. The incident occurred in mid-January and was followed by a multi-week investigation by city detectives.
Authorities say the suspect was taken into custody without resistance and now faces a serious felony charge stemming from the alleged assault and robbery.
Incident Overview
According to investigators, the robbery took place on January 17 at a vape shop located on Delaware Avenue in Buffalo. Police allege that Anthony Cornwell, 26, entered the store and used a firearm to assault two individuals inside the business.
Detectives say the suspect struck the victims with the weapon before stealing several items from the shop. The victims’ injuries were not described in detail, but police classified the incident as a violent felony due to the use of a firearm and physical force.
Timeline of Events
Police reports indicate that the robbery occurred during business hours, prompting an immediate response and investigation by the Buffalo Police Department. After reviewing evidence and following leads, detectives identified Cornwell as a suspect.
On Tuesday, officers located and apprehended him without incident. No injuries were reported during the arrest, and police confirmed that the suspect did not resist.
Details From Police
Following the arrest, investigators obtained a search warrant for a residence in the 2600 block of Delaware Avenue. During the search, officers recovered multiple items believed to be connected to the robbery.
Police said the search yielded several .22-caliber rounds along with suspected stolen property taken during the vape shop robbery. These findings were added to the evidence already collected by detectives during the investigation.
“The suspect was taken into custody without incident, and evidence connected to the robbery was recovered during the execution of a search warrant,” police said.
Additional details about the firearm allegedly used during the robbery were not released.
Key Facts in the Case
- Suspect: Anthony Cornwell, 26, Buffalo resident
- Date of robbery: January 17
- Location: Vape shop on Delaware Avenue, Buffalo
- Items taken: Cash, iPad, wallet, and store merchandise
- Evidence recovered: .22-caliber ammunition and suspected stolen property
- Charge: First-degree robbery (felony)
Cornwell has been formally charged with one felony count of first-degree robbery, a charge that carries significant prison time under New York law if convicted.
Additional Context on Vape Shop Robberies
Vape shops and small retail businesses have increasingly become targets for robberies due to cash registers, electronics, and portable merchandise. Law enforcement agencies often advise owners to install high-quality surveillance systems, limit visible cash, and train staff on safety protocols during robberies.
Police also stress that compliance during an armed robbery is often the safest option, as resisting can escalate violence and increase the risk of serious injury.
Public Safety and Awareness
Buffalo police continue to encourage business owners and residents to report suspicious activity and to review security camera footage following incidents in their neighborhoods. Timely tips from the public often play a crucial role in identifying suspects and recovering stolen property.
Authorities also remind residents that illegal possession of ammunition or stolen goods can lead to additional charges during investigations.
Conclusion
The arrest of Anthony Cornwell marks a significant development in a violent robbery case that disrupted a local business and injured two people. Police say the recovery of ammunition and suspected stolen property strengthens the case as it moves through the legal system.
As the investigation concludes and court proceedings begin, authorities continue to emphasize public cooperation and proactive safety measures across Buffalo’s business districts.
If you have thoughts on retail safety or experiences related to neighborhood crime, share your experiences in the comments below.
