In a dramatic turn of events, 18-year-old Matt McGraw was arrested by Bellevue police in connection to a series of robberies and criminal activities that spanned several locations, including Federal Way, Bellevue, and Lynnwood. McGraw’s arrest followed an investigation into multiple strong-arm robberies and the discovery of a significant amount of stolen property. His criminal activities, it was revealed, were not limited to the robbery of a 72-year-old woman earlier this month, which occurred in Bellevue, but were part of a much larger operation involving several accomplices and a range of stolen goods.
The Robbery and Its Aftermath
The victim, a 72-year-old woman, had been targeted while she was putting groceries into her car at the H Mart parking lot in Bellevue. McGraw, along with an accomplice, approached the woman and forcefully grabbed her purse. According to the police report, the physical assault was severe. The woman was shoved to the ground with such force that it resulted in a compression fracture in her lumbar spine, specifically at the L1 vertebra. The incident left the elderly woman with significant injuries and a broken back. This violent act became the focal point of the investigation into McGraw’s criminal activities.
Aaron Lee, the victim’s son-in-law, expressed his relief over McGraw’s swift arrest, highlighting how important it was for the authorities to take action. He and his family were shocked by the discovery of the numerous stolen items, which included not only personal belongings but also firearms, credit cards, and ammunition. For Lee, the arrest was a necessary step in preventing further harm that McGraw could have caused to other potential victims.
The Discovery of Stolen Property
The Bellevue police had been closely monitoring McGraw’s activities and had gathered enough evidence to execute a search warrant at his residence in Federal Way. The search revealed an overwhelming array of stolen items. Among the most concerning discoveries were over 30 sets of keys, several stolen firearms, and a significant number of credit and debit cards belonging to multiple victims. Additionally, police found police-issued tactical gear, which raised alarm bells about the seriousness of McGraw’s alleged criminal operations.
One of the most unsettling aspects of the case was the apparent targeting of elderly women, a fact that the police emphasized during their press conference. Investigators believe McGraw specifically targeted vulnerable populations, especially elderly females, in a series of violent robberies. The stolen firearms and tactical gear suggested a level of preparedness and organization in his criminal activities that extended far beyond simple robbery.
Connection to the Crime Spree
McGraw’s connection to the robbery of the 72-year-old woman was solidified through careful investigation and attention to detail. Court documents revealed that McGraw had been wearing a distinctive black jacket on the day of the crime, which had a noticeable hole in the left arm, with stuffing visibly coming out. This jacket was key to identifying McGraw in surveillance footage taken from a nearby mall, where he was seen wearing the same jacket. The police also linked McGraw to another robbery, this time involving an 84-year-old woman who was similarly targeted while walking to her car in Lynnwood. McGraw allegedly snatched her purse and knocked her to the ground in a manner similar to the earlier incident in Bellevue.
Further investigation uncovered additional criminal activities committed by McGraw and his accomplice. Detectives found evidence of the duo making large purchases with the stolen credit cards. At the Bellevue Square Mall, McGraw and his accomplice used the stolen cards to buy more than $1,200 worth of goods at Champ’s, a sports and lifestyle store. The surveillance footage from the mall showed the two suspects walking together across a skybridge, which helped authorities piece together their movements and the scope of their crimes.
Other Crimes Linked to McGraw
McGraw’s criminal spree did not end with the robberies. He was also involved in a series of car prowls that took place in various locations, including parking lots of a casino and Boeing facilities in Renton. These car prowls involved the smashing of car windows and the theft of personal property. The discovery of the stolen firearms and ammunition further suggested that McGraw’s actions were part of a larger, more dangerous crime wave.
The efforts of the investigators and police officers involved in the case were praised by the Lee family. Aaron Lee expressed his gratitude for the hard work put in by the Bellevue police and other law enforcement agencies that assisted in tracking down McGraw. The family was relieved that the suspect had been apprehended before he could cause more harm to other innocent people.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Matt McGraw was formally charged with four felonies, including first-degree robbery. Alongside these serious charges, detectives indicated that other charges related to the thefts and illegal possession of firearms could be added. McGraw’s accomplice, whose identity remains under investigation, is also expected to face charges in connection with the crimes.
The arrest of McGraw has been a significant moment in this ongoing case, as it has shed light on the extent of his criminal behavior and his dangerous intentions. With his apprehension, authorities hope to prevent any further crimes and continue to investigate the full scope of his activities. The case serves as a reminder of the lengths to which some criminals will go to exploit vulnerable individuals, and the importance of law enforcement in bringing them to justice before they can cause lasting harm.
