In a distressing turn of events earlier this week, a McDonald’s outlet located at 5833 Northampton Blvd., Virginia Beach, fell victim to an armed robbery, resulting in an estimated loss of $2,600. The incident, which occurred around 1 a.m. early Sunday morning, involved assailants coercing an employee to unlock the establishment’s safe, according to court documents.

Employee Assaulted, Threatened

Court records reveal that during the robbery, the employee on duty was subjected to physical assault. He recounted being pistol-whipped and punched by the perpetrators as they demanded access to the cash reserves. The employee, while initially resisting, ultimately succumbed to the threats and divulged the safe’s code.

Modus Operandi Unveiled

Surveillance footage analyzed by investigators shed light on the sequence of events. The assailants, arriving in a new-looking dark gray Chevrolet Suburban and a new-looking white Chevrolet, entered the establishment’s premises through the employee entrance at 1:14 a.m., consistent with the employee’s testimony. Following the robbery, they swiftly retreated to their vehicles and departed by 1:17 a.m.

Suspects Description and Vehicle Details

Descriptions of the suspects and their vehicles have been provided by law enforcement. One suspect, associated with the white vehicle, was observed wearing a black mask, a ball cap, a light-colored hoodie, dark pants, and dark tennis shoes, while carrying a handgun. The other suspect, linked to the black Suburban, sported a dark mask, a white jacket with black stripes on the sleeves and hood, dark pants, and dark tennis shoes.

Investigation and Progress

Police efforts have been underway, utilizing various resources such as city traffic cameras and Flock cameras in the vicinity. Through these means, the black vehicle involved, bearing Virginia tag TMD9451, was traced to the 600 block of Edinburg Avenue in Chesapeake. Subsequent search operations on the vehicle yielded incriminating evidence including a mask, marijuana, a scale, a mouth guard, a toothbrush, as well as swabs and fingerprints.

Ongoing Investigation

Despite intensive investigations, the identities of the suspects remain undisclosed at this time. However, law enforcement authorities have assured the public that the investigation remains active and ongoing. Individuals with any pertinent information are urged to reach out to the Virginia Beach Police Department or the Crime Line.

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