Man attempted to rob Publix, pistol-whipped a cashier, police say

Law enforcement is searching for a man who pistol-whipped a cashier during an attempted robbery at a Publix supermarket in Palmetto on Tuesday.

The man entered the grocery store, 1101 Eighth Ave. W., at about 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, according to the Palmetto Police Department.

He then approached the customer service area and demanded money from an employee behind the counter, revealing a pistol with a silver or stainless steel finish.

Police say that as the first employee reacted, the suspect moved to a nearby cash register and struck a female cashier in the head with his pistol. He then fled the store and ran northbound on Ninth Avenue West. Police say he was unsuccessful in taking any money or merchandise.

The cashier sustained a head injury during the incident, according to police. No other employees were injured.

Law enforcement describes the suspect as approximately 5 feet 10 inches to 6 feet tall and around 185 pounds. The man was wearing a white mask and a blue baseball cap that read “truck fit” in white, capital letters, and he carried a red backpack or duffel bag.

Anyone with information can call the Palmetto Police Department at 941-721-2000 or report anonymously through Manatee County Crime Stoppers at 1-866-634-8477 or manateecrimestoppers.com.

This story was originally published September 22, 2020 at 11:24 PM.