Deputies Use Robot to Snatch Gun, End Standoff

Officials were able to peacefully end an hours-long standoff in a dark desert when they used a robot to seize a suspect’s gun without him noticing, authorities said. Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputies said 51-year-old attempted murder suspect Brock Ray Bunge was disarmed by the robot on Sept. 8. “The robot was a game changer here,” said Capt. Jack Ewell. “We didn’t have to risk a deputy’s life to disarm a very violent man.” Bunge had allegedly robbed two people and tried to kill another. He reportedly fled to a dark field in Antelope Valley, and a helicopter spotted him behind wire fencing and shrubs. About six hours into the standoff, officials sent in the robot, which showed him on his stomach with his rifle at his feet. While deputies yelled at him, the camouflaged robot grabbed his gun and retreated. “He never knew it happened,” said Ewell. “He only realized the gun was gone when the robot returned to pull down the wire.” Bunge immediately surrendered.