Couple Arrested in Liquor Store Heist

WOODLAND HILLS — A couple were arrested at a San Fernando Valley motel Saturday on suspicion of armed robbery after the holdup of a Thousand Oaks liquor store, police said.

David Keppler, 30, and his girlfriend, Kristina Palmer, 28, both of Newbury Park, were being held in connection with the holdup Friday of Stagecoach Liquors, 1536 Newbury Road, said Ventura County Sheriff’s Sgt. Terry Hughes.

Keppler accidentally shot himself in his right thigh and was to be treated at Ventura County Medical Center before being booked into Ventura County Jail, Hughes said.

Police believe Keppler entered the liquor store about 4:30 p.m., approached a male clerk, and then accidentally fired the round, Hughes said.

“The clerk looked up, the suspect demanded money, and then the suspect reached into the cash drawer and grabbed it,” Hughes said.

Keppler ran from the store and jumped into a blue Honda being driven by Palmer, Hughes said.

A search Friday was unsuccessful, but follow-up investigation Saturday morning led deputies to Woodland Hills Motor Lodge, where the couple were staying.

Police Saturday night were waiting for a warrant to search the motel room for the gun, money and other possible evidence, Hughes said.