Robber Uses Google Translate in Attempted Newark Restaurant Holdup

A man attempted to rob an Ecuadorian restaurant in Newark, New Jersey, using the Google Translate app on his phone to communicate his demands, according to police reports. The incident occurred on February 20, 2026, at Mi Rinconcito Ecuatoriano, located in the city’s Ironbound section.

Details of the Attempted Robbery

At approximately 7:50 a.m., the suspect entered the restaurant on the 100 block of South Street and purchased a cup of coffee. He then used Google Translate to announce his intention to rob the establishment, Newark police reported.

The suspect allegedly threatened to shoot the cashier if she didn’t open the cash register. The cashier, who speaks English, fled from the register, prompting the suspect to attempt to remove the register himself, but was unsuccessful. He then threw his coffee at the cashier and fled the scene heading east on South Street, News 12 reported.

Suspect Description and Investigation

The suspect was last seen walking eastbound on Tichenor Street toward Pennington Court. He is described as a Black male wearing all black clothing and a black face mask, according to the Newark Department of Public Safety.

Authorities believe the suspect may have incorrectly assumed that the restaurant employees did not speak English, given the Ironbound district’s large Hispanic population. However, the restaurant owner, Maria, confirmed to News 12 that the cashier on duty did speak English.

No Injuries Reported, Investigation Ongoing

No physical injuries were reported during the incident. The Newark Police Division is actively investigating and is asking anyone with information to contact the 24-hour Crime Stopper tip line at 1-877-NWK-TIPS (1-877-695-8477) or submit an anonymous tip online through the department’s website, MSN reported.