Cochise County Sheriff’s Office Seeks Help in Rest Stop Robbery Investigation

The Cochise County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) is asking for public assistance in an ongoing investigation into rest stop robberies that occurred last year, following recent suspicious activity that may be connected.
On February 6, 2025, CCSO issued a statement requesting help in identifying suspects involved in a series of robberies at a rest area off I-10 near San Simon, Arizona, in February 2024. The renewed interest in the case comes after a report of suspicious individuals at the same rest stop on February 5, 2025.
Details of the 2024 Rest Area Robberies
CCSO outlined two separate schemes used to target drivers at the I-10 rest stop in February 2024.
In the first incident, a group of 5-8 people was seen celebrating in the parking lot, claiming that a man was giving away money after a big casino win. A truck driver approached the group, and one of the individuals offered to double his money. When the driver checked his cash—nearly $2,000—the suspect grabbed it and ran. As the driver tried to chase the suspect, others physically restrained him and pointed him toward a white truck, claiming the suspect was inside. The driver stopped the truck but found that its sole occupant was not the suspect. The group then fled the area in multiple vehicles.
The second incident took place the following night. A resting driver was woken up by someone banging on his truck and yelling that a driver needed help. When the driver exited his truck and followed the person, he noticed another individual inside the passenger side of his vehicle. As he ran back, someone tripped him, causing him to fall and injure his head. A group of 5-8 people then fled the scene in multiple vehicles, having stolen a large sum of money from inside his truck.
Suspicious Activity Reported in 2025
On Wednesday, February 5, 2025, CCSO received reports of several individuals behaving suspiciously at the San Simon rest stop. Photos were taken to assist in the investigation.
As part of the ongoing probe, police have identified 40-year-old Adam Smith as an investigative lead. Smith’s last known address was on the East Coast, and he is believed to associate with several men and at least one woman.
CCSO urges anyone with information to contact their local law enforcement agency or SEACOM at 520-803-3550.
Drivers are also advised to stay alert, be aware of their surroundings, and take safety precautions when stopping at rest areas.
Authorities have released photos of the recent suspicious activity at the San Simon rest stop in an effort to generate leads in the investigation.
