Alleged Vehicle Burglary Suspect Sought In Big Bear Lake

BIG BEAR LAKE (CBSLA.com) — Police sought the public's help Tuesday to locate a 23-year-old man accused of burglarizing vehicles in shopping center parking lots.

According to the Big Bear Sheriff's Station, deputies were sent around 5:15 p.m. Saturday to the Interlaken Shopping Center for report of a disturbance.

A witness explained to officials that a Hispanic man -- later identified as Michael Reyes, Jr. -- allegedly broke into a vehicle located in the parking lot of the shopping center, and stole items from inside the car.

When the witnesses chased after Reyes, he allegedly brandished a weapon and made threatening statements before he fled into an open field behind the shopping center.

Around 4:45 p.m., deputies were sent to check on a report of an attempted vehicle theft that occurred in the K-Mart parking lot.

A preliminary investigation revealed Reyes broke into a second vehicle, but fled from the area when the owner yelled at him to get out of the car.

Authorities conducted a ground and aerial search of the area for Reyes, but were unsuccessful in locating him.

With the help of photographs posted to social media, deputies were able to identify Reyes in both vehicle robberies.

According to deputies, Reyes has active felony warrants issued for having a prior criminal history of assault with a deadly weapon and drug related charges.

An additional warrant was issued by the San Bernardino County Superior Court on Sunday for Reyes' arrest.

Detectives described him as a Hispanic man with brown hair and brown eyes. He stands 5-foot-11 tall, and weighs 160 pounds.

Authorities believe Reyes may be driving a tan or gold 1999 Toyota Camry, with a California license plate that reads: 4DNA642.

If seen, deputies warned not to attempt to detain Reyes, as he is known to carry weapons and may become irritated if contacted.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Reyes is urged to contact the Big Bear Sheriff's Station at (909) 866-0100.