Minnesota lawmaker robbed at gunpoint in St. Paul, Minn.

ST. PAUL, Minn. (KMSP) - A Minnesota lawmaker was robbed at gunpoint while walking in St. Paul, Minnesota late Thursday night.

Rep. Dennis Smith (R-Maple Grove), the chief author of the REAL ID bill that was signed into law on Thursday, said he was walking back to his car after celebrating with colleagues at Salut on Grand Avenue when the robbery occurred. 

According to the police report, Smith was walking on Milton Street north of Grand Avenue around 10:30 p.m. and was on his phone when he was approached by a man with a handgun.

The suspect pointed the gun at Smith and demanded his wallet and cell phone. Smith complied and the suspect fled the scene. Smith then went to a nearby bar on Grand Avenue and called police.

"I’m thankful that it ended in a safe manner," Smith said. "It’s unfortunate that it happened on a great day, with REAL ID being signed into law.” 

No one is in custody at this time. The suspect is described as between 25 and 35 years old. He was wearing a black, hooded sweatshirt and other dark clothing. He is clean shaven with short hair.

The incident remains under investigation.