EAST MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE — What began as a declined debit card transaction over a $1.69 cigar purchase escalated into a full armed robbery that landed two brothers behind bars. Authorities say 21-year-old Howard Smith and 22-year-old Amari Smith are now facing aggravated robbery charges after allegedly robbing a convenience store at gunpoint for just $3 in cash and two Red Bull energy drinks. Both men are currently being held on a $150,000 bond each.
How a Declined Card Led to Armed Robbery
Investigators say Howard attempted to purchase cigars for $1.69 using a debit card, which was declined due to insufficient funds. When a store employee informed him the funds would be refunded to his account within one to two hours, Howard became visibly upset.
The employee then reportedly heard Howard on his phone telling someone to “bring that fire,” which was interpreted as a reference to a firearm. Moments later, the situation took a dangerous turn.
What Happened Inside the Store
Amari entered the store armed with a gun and demanded the return of his brother’s money. The employee froze during the confrontation, which allegedly escalated tensions further. Howard then allegedly took $3 directly from the register and handed it to his brother.
Amari also reportedly instructed other customers inside the store to take whatever they wanted before both men left the scene. He is additionally accused of taking two Red Bull energy drinks valued at $3.99 each during the incident.
How Both Brothers Were Arrested
When officers arrived at the scene, Howard was still inside the store and was taken into custody immediately. Amari was located and arrested shortly after at a nearby residence.
Following both arrests, police executed a search warrant at the brothers’ home. Investigators reportedly recovered three Red Bull energy drinks inside Amari’s room and a Smith and Wesson SD40 handgun inside Howard’s bedroom, further strengthening the case against both men.
Charges and Bond
Both Howard Smith and Amari Smith are facing aggravated robbery charges in connection with the incident. Each is currently being held on a $150,000 bond. The charges carry serious criminal penalties, and the recovery of a firearm from the home during the search warrant adds further weight to the case prosecutors are building against the two brothers. Stay with GordonRamsayClub.com for the latest updates.
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