In Niles, Michigan, a distressing incident unfolded at a local Popeyes Louisiana Chicken outlet located at 306 S. 11th St. On the afternoon of Monday, March 25, around 4:30 p.m., the Niles Police Department was alerted to an armed robbery in progress at the fast-food restaurant.
Upon their arrival, law enforcement officers were informed that a young male suspect had already fled the scene in a vehicle accompanied by at least three other individuals. According to eyewitness accounts, the assailant had brazenly entered the restaurant, bypassing customer areas to access a staff-only section. Once inside, he brandished a knife and demanded money from the employees.
A confrontation ensued between the robber and a male employee, during which the employee sustained a cut from the suspect’s knife. Fortunately, the injuries the employee suffered were not life-threatening. Despite the harrowing experience, the employee’s courageous actions played a pivotal role in forcing the assailant to flee the premises without any stolen money.
The Niles Police Department, in collaboration with the Michigan State Police and the Cass County Sheriff’s Department, acted swiftly on a received tip. Their combined efforts led to the location of the suspect and the vehicle involved in the 2500 block of Juniper Road in Niles. The suspect, identified as a male juvenile, was apprehended and has since been charged with armed robbery. He is currently being held at the Berrien County Juvenile Center, awaiting further legal proceedings.
This incident saw the commendable cooperation of multiple law enforcement and emergency service agencies, including the Michigan State Police, Berrien County Sheriff’s Department, Cass County Sheriff’s Department, Niles Fire Department, and SMCAS Ambulance Services. Their collective response was instrumental in the quick resolution of this alarming situation.
The Niles Police Department expressed relief that the robbery attempt did not result in any serious injuries and praised the swift apprehension of the suspect. They also commended the bravery displayed by the Popeyes employees during the ordeal and thanked the community for their vigilance and assistance in providing information that led to the suspect’s arrest.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable challenges that employees in the service industry can face and the importance of community and law enforcement collaboration in maintaining public safety.