Manchester Man Arrested for Armed Bookstore Robbery

Christopher Webber charged with armed robbery and felon in possession of a dangerous weapon.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 7:34pm

An extreme close-up of a shiny metal knife blade against a dark background, conceptually representing the weapon used in a recent armed robbery in Manchester.A recent armed robbery at a local Manchester bookstore underscores the city's ongoing struggle with property crimes and violent offenses.Manchester Today

Police in Manchester, New Hampshire arrested a 28-year-old man named Christopher Webber on Saturday after he allegedly displayed a knife, stole money from a tip jar, and fled from a local bookstore called The Bookery.

Why it matters

Robberies and violent crimes in downtown Manchester have been an ongoing concern for local businesses and residents, with the city working to improve public safety and deter repeat offenders.

The details

According to police, Webber entered The Bookery around 11:25 a.m. and was noticed by employees to be carrying a knife. He then approached the café counter, requested a glass of water, and after receiving it, displayed the knife, grabbed money from the tip jar, and fled the scene. Officers located Webber a short time later near the Hanover Chophouse, where he was found to be in possession of a knife and matched the suspect's description.

  • The incident occurred around 11:25 a.m. on Saturday, April 11, 2026.
  • Webber was arrested and charged shortly after the robbery.

The players

Christopher Webber

A 28-year-old Manchester resident who was arrested and charged with armed robbery and felon in possession of a dangerous weapon.

The Bookery

A local bookstore in downtown Manchester where the armed robbery took place.

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What’s next

Webber is scheduled to be arraigned on Monday in Manchester District Court.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the continued challenges Manchester faces in addressing property crimes and violent offenses in the city's downtown area, underscoring the need for a comprehensive approach to public safety that addresses root causes and deters repeat criminal behavior.