20 year old admits to robbing Alton hardware store

ALTON, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A 20-year-old man is behind bars for robbing a hardware store in Alton.

Gael Fernandez admitted to the aggravated robbery that took place Thursday afternoon at Los Pinos Hardware Store.

Deputies arrived at the hardware store and spoke with the store clerk, who provided details on the robbery.

The clerk reported that Fernandez entered the store with a message on his cell phone reading, "This is a robbery."

Fernandez also claimed to have a gun. In response, the clerk left cash from the register and left.

Fernandez reportedly grabbed the money and left the store.

Soon after, Fernandez was detained by store employees and a nearby deputy constable.

Deputies say although Fernandez claimed to have a gun, he was carrying a hammer.

Fernandez faced a judge on Friday where he was given a $40,000 bond.