Police called after assault at restaurant in Takoma Park

Takoma Park police were called to a restaurant during lunchtime on November 26, 2024, after someone reported having been the victim of a 2nd-degree assault there. The assault was reported at Tijuana's Mexican Cafe at 949 University Boulevard E. at 12:40 PM. Police say that the victim was assaulted by an unknown male, whose description has not yet been released by detectives. 

If you have any information about this incident, or can identify the suspect, text an anonymous tip to the Takoma Park Police Department via tip411: Send a text to 847411, type the word “TPPDTIP” before the message, and refer to Case #240056772.

Police officer assaulted at Home Depot in Aspen Hill

A Montgomery County police officer was assaulted by a shoplifting suspect at Home Depot at 14000 Georgia Avenue in Aspen Hill on November 11, 2024. Around 8:54 PM that evening, a man allegedly attempted to steal merchandise from the store. He assaulted the officer when confronted, but was taken into custody. 

Anderson Velazquez, 20, of Glenmont has been charged with felony 1st-degree assault, felony assault on a a law enforcement officer, 2nd-degree assault, misdemeanor theft, resisting arrest, and obstructing and hindering a police officer. He is being held without bond. A preliminary hearing in the case has been scheduled for December 6 at 9:30 AM in Montgomery County District Court in Rockville.

Purple Line traffic shift on MD-193 in Takoma Park set for December 9

A Purple Line-related traffic shift on University Boulevard E. in Takoma Park is scheduled to begin on or about December 9, 2024. Traffic will shift to the outer lanes of University between Carroll Avenue and 14th Avenue, leaving two lanes operating in each direction. The shift will allow creation of a Purple Line work zone in the center of the roadway, for the purpose of track installation for the future light rail line. 

Work may take place between 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM on weekdays, and weekends, as needed. Watch for signage and flagmen when traveling through the work zone.

Gingerbread house at Downtown Silver Spring

A life-size gingerbread house has appeared at Downtown Silver Spring for the holidays. "Snow Be It" is the theme for the elevator tower house at the Peterson Cos. development. Pose in front of it and tag @dtsilverspring on Instagram, and you might be featured on their social media accounts. It's not a duplex or quadplex, so don't tell the Montgomery County Council!

DTLR opens in Silver Spring

DTLR has opened at Ellsworth Place mall in downtown Silver Spring, the mall announced yesterday. The chain sells top name brand athletic shoes, sportswear, and accessories. Nike, Puma, Adidas, and North Face are among the labels offered. DTLR has an existing store at Westfield's Wheaton Plaza mall.

Commas food hall update in Silver Spring (Photos)

The new Commas food hall at Ellsworth Place mall in downtown Silver Spring is starting to round into a finished product. It's an addition to the mall that has faced multiple delays over the past several years. Evidence of the latest speed bump in the road was posted at the construction site on November 6. An Inspection Disapproval notice states that there was "no poc on site" for "the second time." The Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services inspector issued a requirement for a reinspection fee to proceed.

Update on Prime Coffee & Bakery in Silver Spring

The sign is up at Prime Coffee & Bakery at 930 Thayer Avenue in downtown Silver Spring. Interior fit-out of the French bakery and Ethiopian coffee shop appears to be complete. Seating, as well as kitchen and counter equipment, are now in place. Prime is located in the ground floor of the Thayer & Spring apartment building.