GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Authorities are investigating two armed robberies that happened at two Gainesville businesses in the Northeast 16th Avenue area since July.
Police believe the same person is responsible for both robberies and are asking for the public's help in identifying the armed robber.
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The first robbery happened around 4 p.m. July 25 at Cranes Cleaners at 411 Northeast 23rd Ave.
An officer responded to a call about a man, described as black and in his 30s, who was armed with a pistol and had just robbed the business, police said. A witness saw the robber run behind Choice Apartments.
Police said a K-9 track was unsuccessful. The robber had discarded his poncho and mask, which were collected by investigators.
The second robbery happened Wednesday at the Family Dollar Store at 508 Northeast 23rd Ave.
As employees were closing for the night they were approached by a man dressed in all black, police said.
The robber pushed the door open, entered the store and produced a handgun. Police said the robber pointed the handgun at the employees and demanded money.
Two cash drawers were emptied into a Dollar General bag. Police said the robber fled the store on foot.
The robber in that incident was described by police as a black man with a medium build who is 40 to 50 years old, about 5 feet 7 inches to 5 feet 9 inches tall. He was described as having salt-and-pepper facial hair and eyebrows. Police said the man was described as homeless in appearance with "bad teeth."
Anyone with information is asked to call the Gainesville Police Department at 352-393-7670, or text keyword GPDFL plus your tip to 274637. Tipsters can also call Alachua County Crimestoppers at 352-392-STOP.