Lebanon Police seek help finding Wendy's armed robbery suspect

Apr. 26—Police are asking for help in identifying a man accused of robbing a Lebanon restaurant at gunpoint Thursday night.

"The man walked into Wendy's, placed a food order, brandished a firearm, and asked for money, Lebanon Police Officer Tyreese Griffin said.

Schools were not placed on lockdown Friday, despite the suspect still being at large. "We believe there is no current threat to the community," Griffin said.

The man tucked his semi-automatic pistol and money a cashier gave him into his jacket and left on foot without injuring anyone at about 9:40 p.m. A three-hour manhunt followed on the ground and in the air.

Police dogs tracked a scent for about 20 blocks, ending at 905 Indianapolis Avenue, Griffin said.

Wendy's is at 1362 S. Lebanon St. and the dogs and police searched around a former mobile home park near the restaurant and area businesses that included Jerry's Feed and Salt and the Milky Way on Indianapolis Avenue, according to Boone County Communications Center records.

A police drone and an Indiana State Police helicopter searched from above.

Authorities found no vehicle associated with the suspect. Police released a description:

* A black, light-skinned man;

* Short gray beard;

* Ball cap with an American flag motif on the black front and white mesh on the back;

* Black jacket;

* Gray-colored shirt;

* Black pants;

* Black shoes with white soles; and

* Gray gloves with a black grip.

"We're fielding tips and names we're getting from the community, and we really appreciate it," Griffin said. "If you recognize, or believe you know the person, please give us a call."

To provide a tip, call 765-482-8836, email to crimetips@cityoflebanon.org, or contact the police department via Facebook.