Customer takes down armed robbery suspect at NW Houston Taco Bell

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- We're getting our first look at a man who police say tried to rip off a northwest Houston Taco Bell with a rifle.

It happened on December 22 on Hollister Street. Rodale Scranton, 31, was arrested after being taken down by someone inside that restaurant.

Scranton is now charged with intentionally and knowingly threatening with a deadly weapon and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

According to police, he was armed when he entered the restaurant and demanded money from the clerk. But things didn't go as he had planned.

A customer, who happened to know the clerk, tackled Scranton, wrestling him to the ground.

The clerk says she then grabbed his gun and they both held him until police arrived.

Scranton has a criminal past. He has previously been convicted on felony possession of controlled substance and burglary.