Press Releases

For Immediate Release: Friday, August 5, 2022

Gaithersburg, MD – Detectives from the Montgomery County Department of Police – Major Crimes Division have arrested and charged 21-year-old Zachary Kinnell, of Upper Marlboro, and 20-year-old Brian Elzey, of Upper Marlboro, with the armed robbery of a McDonald’s restaurant in the 2700 block of University Blvd. W. in Kensington. Detectives have released a photo of the two suspects and encourage anyone who may be a victim to come forward.

On Wednesday, August 3, 2022, at approximately 2:05 a.m., 4th District officers responded to the location for the report for an armed robbery that just occurred.

The investigation by detectives has determined that two suspects, traveling in a silver Chevrolet Cruz, entered the drive‐thru and ordered food. One of the suspects exited the vehicle, approached the cashier's window, displayed a black handgun and told the cashier to leave. The cashier complied. The suspect then reached through the window and removed an undisclosed amount of money from a cash drawer. The suspects then left the location in the Chevrolet traveling eastbound on University Blvd W.

On Thursday, August 4, 2022, at approximately 12:51 a.m., Montgomery County Police officers observed a silver Chevrolet Cruz occupied by two individuals enter the drive-thru of the McDonald’s restaurant in the 12100 block of Veirs Mill Rd. Officers determined that this vehicle matched the description of the vehicle that was used recently to rob the McDonald’s on University Blvd. W. and other McDonald's restaurants throughout the DMV area.

The suspects made a purchase and exited the parking lot area of the restaurant. Officers followed the Chevrolet and pulled it over in the area of Veirs Mill Rd. and Connecticut Ave. Officers arrested the two occupants, later identified as Zachary and Elzey. Items of evidentiary value were found in the Chevrolet.

Zachary and Elzey were transported to the Central Processing Unit, where they were charged with armed robbery related charges.

Detectives believe that there may be additional victims that have not contacted police, and are urging any victims or anyone with information to contact the Major Crimes Division at 240-773-5070, or contact Crime Solvers of Montgomery County toll-free at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477). Callers may remain anonymous.

Brian Elzey Zachary Kinnell