Four teens charged in Burger King robbery

Four teens robbed a McHenry Burger King around 12 a.m. Monday, but were apprehended just minutes later, police said.

Three teens wearing black hooded sweatshirts and bandannas went to the rear of the restaurant at 2180 N. Richmond Road while a fourth teen waited in a red getaway car, according to police.

The teens overpowered two employees who were taking out the garbage, police said. They hit one of the employees in the face; he later was treated for minor injuries on the scene, according to police. While one of the robbers held the employee who had been assaulted outside, the other two forced the second employee to let them in the restaurant through the back door, police said.

When they got inside, the robbers brandished what appeared to be a handgun, demanded cash and fled after getting it, police said.

They were pulled over a few minutes later by an officer who noticed that one of the teens matched the description of one of the robbers, police said.

“Based on the officer's observations and evidence found in the vehicle, there was sufficient evidence to initiate the arrest,” Deputy Chief Robert Lumber said.

All four were charged with aggravated robbery and theft, which carry typical sentences of four to 15 years in prison if convicted. The cash was recovered.

According to police, those charged were Marco A. Delgadillo and Kyle D. Melton, both 18. Matthew S. Avonts and Patrick J. Casagrande, both 17, were also charged. Delgadillo was also charged with aggravated battery. All the charges are felonies.

Police determined the guns used in the robbery were actually toys.

All four teens are scheduled to appear in court for a bond hearing on today. Until then, they are being held at the McHenry County jail.