State Police arrest Albany man after late night robbery at a gas station in the town of Malta

Malta, New York – A young man from Albany was arrested by State Police following a robbery that took place late Tuesday night at a gas station in Malta, authorities said. The incident prompted a swift response from law enforcement, who were able to locate the suspect shortly after the crime occurred.

According to State Police, Werkneh H. Hayes, 19, of Albany, was taken into custody on July 16, 2025, following an investigation into the robbery. Hayes now faces charges of robbery in the third degree and grand larceny in the fourth degree in connection with the case.

The incident began on the night of July 15, 2025, just before 11 p.m., when troopers received a report of a robbery at a gas station on Round Lake Road in Malta. Responding officers arrived at the scene and launched an investigation into the events leading up to the robbery.

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Authorities allege that Hayes entered the store and approached the cashier before demanding money. While making his threats, Hayes reportedly indicated he would harm the cashier if they did not comply with his demands. Police noted that no weapon was displayed during the robbery.

After obtaining an undisclosed amount of cash, Hayes allegedly fled the scene in a vehicle. Law enforcement quickly began searching for the suspect based on descriptions provided during the investigation.

It wasn’t long before deputies with the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office located a vehicle matching the description provided by witnesses. Officers conducted a traffic stop on Middle Line Road in Ballston, where they discovered Hayes behind the wheel. He was immediately taken into custody without further incident.

Police confirmed that no other individuals were present in the vehicle at the time of the arrest. Additionally, authorities stated that the stolen money was recovered during the stop.
Following his arrest, Hayes was transported to the State Police barracks in Saratoga for processing. He was later arraigned at Malta Town Court, where the judge ordered Hayes released on his own recognizance.

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After his court appearance, Hayes was turned over to the Mechanicville Police Department in connection with what officials described as a “similar but unrelated crime.”

State Police expressed their appreciation for the swift work of the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office in bringing the incident to a quick and safe resolution.

No injuries were reported during the robbery, and no weapon was found or believed to have been used in the commission of the crime.

Authorities have not released additional details about the separate incident in Mechanicville.