Maplewood police need help identifying Popeye's armed robber

MAPLEWOOD, Minn. (KMSP) - Maplewood police are asking for the public’s help in identifying a suspect in the armed robbery of a Popeye’s Chicken last Thursday.

The attempted robbery took place at the Popeye’e on the 1900 block of Beam Avenue at approximately 9:50 p.m. The suspect, wearing a face mask, entered through the back door of the restaurant shortly after two employees went outside to take trash to a dumpster.

Once inside, the suspect grabbed an employee from behind, held a handgun to their head and demanded the safe be opened.

The employee fought with the suspect and was pistol whipped by the suspect. The suspect eventually broke free and fled out the back door.

Officers searched the area, but were unable to locate the suspect.

The employee sustained minor injuries, but did not require immediate medical attention.

The suspect is described as 5’6” to 5’9” in height, weighs approximately 150 to 180 pounds and is between 20 to 30 years old. The suspect has a number of tattoos on his arms.

Anyone with information regarding the identity or whereabouts of the suspect is asked to call the Maplewood Police Department at 651-767-0640 or send an anonymous by text to 847411 with the keyword MAPLEWOOD.