Armed suspect sought for targeting several businesses in OC

SANTA ANA, Calif. (KABC) -- Santa Ana police are looking for a serial robber suspected of targeting at least seven businesses within the last four-and-a-half months.

"I didn't realize I was getting robbed until the gun was actually in my face," Maritza Leon said.

Leon was held up about a month ago at a Metro PCS located on South Main Street. The robber got away with less than $200 that he took from the register.

Authorities said it was the fourth time that suspect had hit a Metro PCS, and it was the second time at that particular location.

"I'm just nervous because there's a lot of commotion going on here and I don't want him to come back. Everyone is kind of scared of what might happen," Leon said.

Five days later, the suspect hit a bakery on 17th Street, holding an unsuspecting customer at gunpoint. Four days after that, the suspect held up a tax services business and at one point pistol-whipped an employee.

"I understand that she had important papers in that wallet, but there is nothing worth losing your life over during a robbery," Cpl. Anthony Bertagna said.

The man is described to be between 30 and 40 years old, 5 feet 8 inches tall, with a mustache. He typically wears a bandana to hide his face and was seen getting into a gold or beige older model Ford Explorer with a roof rack.

Authorities and his victims hope someone recognizes him before he strikes again.