Independence Township: Masked Gunman Robs Jimmy John's Employees

Detectives in Oakland County are appealing to the public for assistance after a frightening armed robbery unfolded at a Jimmy John's in Independence Township late Tuesday night. The incident occurred at approximately 10:45 p.m. at the sandwich shop located at 5601 Sashabaw Road.

A Violent Break-in

According to the preliminary investigation by the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, an unidentified male suspect gained entry to the closed business by shattering the glass of a rear door. Once inside, the intruder confronted two young female employees—ages 19 and 21—brandishing a handgun and demanding access to the store's safe.

When the frightened employees informed the gunman that they did not have the ability to open the safe, the suspect pivoted his demands. He ordered the young women to place their personal purses on the counter. After they complied, the suspect reportedly climbed onto the counter, snatched the purses, and fled the scene on foot through the same broken backdoor.

Search and Ongoing Investigation

Deputies quickly established a perimeter around the area. Despite a coordinated search utilizing the Sheriff's Office K-9 Unit and Drone Unit, the suspect managed to evade capture. He was last seen wearing a mask, a black hooded sweatshirt, and black shoes.

Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard has urged anyone living or working in the area to review their security cameras for footage of a person on foot or a fleeing vehicle around the time of the incident. Anyone with potential leads is encouraged to contact the Independence Township Substation or Crime Stoppers to submit an anonymous tip.