Armed Robbery at Airliner Motel Leads to Arrest

In the early hours of June 18, Salina police responded to a report of an armed robbery at the Airliner Motel located at 781 North Broadway Boulevard. The incident was reported at 3:30 am, though it occurred approximately an hour earlier at 2:30 am.

The victim, a 23-year-old male from Salina, reported that he met a female at a motel room. While he was in the room with the woman, she opened the door of the motel room for her two accomplices. She is described as a white female approximately 5’4” tall.

A black male wearing a ski mask entered the room, brandishing a gun and forcing the victim to lie down. Another suspect joined them, and they proceeded to rob the victim, taking his wallet, cash, and keys. During the ordeal, the victim was struck multiple times in the head.

A Saline County Sheriff's Deputy observed a suspect matching the description of one of the suspects. The individual fled from the deputy near 7th Street and Pacific Avenue and threw a backpack while fleeing. He was apprehended at 7th Street and Hamilton Avenue. A K9 unit located the discarded backpack containing a handgun and marijuana.

The suspect, identified as Antwon Pierce, a 44-year-old male from Salina, was arrested and has requested charges of kidnapping, aggravated robbery, aggravated battery, criminal possession of a weapon, interference, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Police are still searching for the two other suspects involved in the robbery. The investigation is ongoing.