The Fresno County Sheriff’s Office today announced the arrest of two Dos Palos men in connection with two separate armed robberies which occurred this past weekend. Arrested were 31 year old Michael John Bryant and 34 year old Gary Dean Bunyard.
This past Saturday afternoon, shortly after 1:30pm, deputies responded to the first armed robbery call in the 38500 block of W Silaxo Ave in western Fresno County. The victim reported being robbed at gunpoint of his cell phone and truck keys while he worked in the area. He described the suspects as two white males who were driving a dark colored Kia SUV.
Less than ten minutes later, the second armed robbery was reported from a canal bank near in the 41500 block of W Olaxis Ave. The victim, who was fishing at the time, also reported being robbed at gunpoint by two white males. The suspects stole his cash, cell phone, and vehicle before fleeing. The suspects then drove away, one in a dark gray Kia SUV, and the other in the victim’s silver PT Cruiser.
The Sheriff’s dispatch center immediately broadcast a description of the armed and dangerous suspects, and the vehicles involved.
Shortly after 2:00pm, Firebaugh PD units spotted the Kia driving in their city. Officers observed the vehicle crash into another vehicle near the intersection of 10th & “N” St. The driver, later identified as Bunyard, attempted to drive away but gave up when he saw the police officers. He was detained without incident.
At about the same time, Mendota PD officers spotted the stolen PT Cruiser driving south on Hwy 33 thru their city. Officers attempted to pull the vehicle over but the driver failed to yield and a pursuit ensued. The pursuit only lasted a short time but reached speeds of 90 mph. The driver, later identified as Bryant, drove to the 300 block of S Derrick Ave where he suddenly stopped, jumped out, and fled on foot. Bryant was caught after a short foot pursuit and taken into custody.
During the subsequent investigation, both Bryant and Bunyard were identified as being involved in the crimes.
Bryant, an AB109 probationer, was ultimately arrested on charges of carjacking, armed robbery, and possession of stolen property. Bunyard was arrested on charges of carjacking and armed robbery. Both were later booked into the Fresno County Jail
