Depoe Bay, Oregon – Two armed men accused of robbing a coastal Oregon bank and fleeing in multiple vehicles are now in custody after a rapid, multi-agency law enforcement response. Authorities say more than $50,000 in stolen cash and two weapons were recovered following the robbery and subsequent pursuit.
Incident Overview
According to officials, the robbery occurred shortly before noon on Thursday at a Columbia Bank branch in Depoe Bay, a small city along the Oregon coast. Investigators say two armed suspects entered the bank, threatened staff, and demanded access to the vault before fleeing with approximately $50,000 in cash.
The incident prompted an immediate response from local and state law enforcement agencies, triggering a search that stretched across multiple coastal locations.
Timeline of Events
Authorities say the suspects initially fled the scene in a red sedan, traveling southbound along Highway 101. A short time later, the vehicle was found set on fire in a vacant lot in Depoe Bay, suggesting an attempt to destroy evidence.
A witness then reported seeing two men abandon the burning vehicle and enter a gray Toyota, which was later identified as a Toyota Camry. Roughly one hour after the robbery, deputies located the Camry parked and unoccupied near Don Davis Park in Newport.
During a search of the surrounding area, officers discovered clothing matching what the suspects were wearing during the robbery discarded in a public trash can, further strengthening the case against them.
Details From Police and Officials
Law enforcement officers later spotted two individuals matching the suspects’ descriptions at separate locations in Newport—one near the intersection of Highway 101 and Highway 20, and the other at Nye Beach.
Both men were taken into custody without further incident, according to the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, which provided details of the arrests in an official statement.
“A coordinated search by multiple agencies led to the recovery of the stolen money and the arrest of both suspects within hours of the robbery,” the sheriff’s office said.
Key Facts of the Case
The suspects have been identified as Franco Armando Mereno Jr., 37, of Portland, and Jonathan F. Schwentner, 43, of Canby.
Both men are being held on multiple charges, including robbery, aggravated theft, and kidnapping, according to investigators.
During a search of the Toyota Camry and a large backpack found near Nye Beach, officers recovered more than $50,000 in cash along with two weapons believed to have been used in the robbery.
Suspects’ Backgrounds
Court records show that Jonathan F. Schwentner has a prior criminal history in Oregon. In 2002, he was convicted of second-degree escape in Union County following allegations involving vehicle theft, burglary of a pawn shop, and fleeing from police. He was later convicted of second-degree burglary in Marion County in 2003.
Officials stated that Franco Armando Mereno Jr. does not have a known criminal record in Oregon.
Additional Context and Public Safety Considerations
Bank robberies involving firearms pose significant risks to employees, customers, and bystanders, especially in smaller communities where resources may be limited. Law enforcement officials emphasize that quick reporting by witnesses and inter-agency coordination are critical in resolving such cases safely.
Authorities also remind the public to avoid approaching suspects and to immediately report suspicious activity, particularly during active investigations involving violent crimes.
Ongoing Investigation
The Lincoln County Major Crime Team, assisted by the Oregon State Police and several local police departments, continues to investigate the case. Officials are reviewing evidence collected from the vehicles, weapons, and clothing to determine whether additional charges may be filed.
Details released by investigators were confirmed through information shared by the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office.
Conclusion
What began as a high-risk armed bank robbery along the Oregon coast ended within hours due to swift police action, eyewitness assistance, and coordinated searches across multiple locations. With both suspects in custody and the stolen money recovered, officials say the case highlights the importance of community awareness and rapid law enforcement response.
If you witnessed any related activity or have additional information that could assist investigators, authorities encourage you to contact local law enforcement. Share your experiences in the comments below.
