Five Arrested, Including Three Juveniles, in Springfield Weapons Charges

Springfield Police have arrested five individuals and recovered 14 firearms following a burglary at a Scheels Sporting Goods store on April 5, 2026. The investigation, which included the execution of search warrants, also resulted in the seizure of narcotics and a significant amount of cash.

The incident began on April 5, 2026, at approximately 10:21 p.m., when officers were dispatched to the Scheels Sporting Goods location at 3801 S MacArthur Blvd in response to a burglar alarm. Upon arrival, police discovered evidence of a burglary and damage to the business. Several firearms and other merchandise had been stolen, and the suspects had fled the scene before officers arrived.

Less than an hour later, at approximately 11:15 p.m. On April 5, 2026, officers located a suspect matching one of the descriptions near 9th and Spruce. The suspect, identified as 20-year-old Romero Allen, attempted to flee from officers before being apprehended. During the arrest, police recovered two firearms and numerous other items stolen during the burglary.

Romero Allen faces several charges, including burglary, theft, possession of a firearm without a FOID card, unlawful use of a weapon while masked, possession of a stolen firearm, unlawful possession of a firearm and firearm ammunition, and aggravated unlawful use of a weapon.

Further Arrests and Investigations

Following the initial arrest, detectives from the Criminal Investigation Division conducted further intelligence gathering to identify additional suspects. This investigation led to the arrest of three male juveniles on April 6, 2026. During these arrests, police recovered five additional firearms.

Two of the arrested juveniles have been charged with burglary to Scheels Sporting Goods, theft, possession of a stolen firearm, aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, and unlawful possession of a firearm.

35-year-old Avery Sanders was arrested in connection with the investigation. Sanders faces charges of being an armed habitual criminal, possession of a stolen firearm, manufacture/delivery of a controlled substance, unlawful possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, and methamphetamine delivery.

Recovered Evidence and Agency Collaboration

Through a combination of the initial burglary response and the subsequent execution of search warrants, Springfield Police recovered a large volume of illegal items and stolen property. The total seizure included:

• 14 firearms
• 151 grams of methamphetamine
• 91 grams of crack cocaine
• $12,760 in cash
• Various items of stolen merchandise

Springfield Police stated that the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms assisted the department during the investigation.