Suspect identified in robbery, shots fired investigation near Carbondale restaurant

CARBONDALE, Ill. (KFVS) - Carbondale police are releasing more details into a robbery and shots fired investigation in the area of the Chili’s restaurant on Tuesday evening, September 19.

Police identified the suspect as 30-year-old Juan M. Rivera, of Carbondale.

Rivera was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on assault, aggravated robbery and aggravated battery charges.

According to Carbondale police, the victim is not facing charges at this time, but the Jackson County State’s Attorney is reviewing the case for further possible charges.

The investigation started at 6:30 p.m. when officers responded to reports of a robbery and shots fired in the area of the restaurant at 1240 East Main Street.

When they arrived, police said officers learned a robbery took place in the parking lot near a business and the friends of the victim chased after the suspect in and out of a business.

It is not clear what business the suspect was chased in and out of.

The chase then ended up in a parking lot near Chili’s where police said the victim fired a handgun at the suspect.

No injuries were reported.

Police say the investigation remains active and ongoing.

Anyone with information about what happened is encouraged to contact the Carbondale Police Department at 618-549-2121.

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