Ephrata police seek armed suspect

EPHRATA - Ephrata police are seeking a male suspect believed to have held up two teen friends at gunpoint Saturday morning before reportedly stealing an Xbox video game system from them.

The suspect allegedly knocked on the back door of the C Street home where the teens were staying and demanded money, but didn't ask for a certain amount, Ephrata Police Chief Joe Varick stated.

The suspect reportedly showed the teen friends a silver-colored, snub-nosed revolver when the door was answered, Varick stated.

The teenagers, ages 17 and 18, reportedly told the suspect they didn't have any money, Varick stated.

The suspect then demanded a DVD player and allegedly took an Xbox, Varick stated.

Police responded to the call about 12:32 a.m. Saturday. They were later unable to find the suspect in the snow.

The male suspect was last seen wearing a black beanie and a blue bandana tied around his face.

The suspect's age range is unknown and further details about the gun have also not emerged, Varick said. He added that his detective planned to speak with the victims Monday.

To report information about this case, call Ephrata police at 509-754-2491 or dispatch at 509-762-1160.