Norfolk Police Investigate Armed Robbery and Attempted Robbery at Family Dollar on Cromwell Drive

NORFOLK, VA — The Norfolk Police Department is actively investigating a series of crimes at the Family Dollar retail location on Cromwell Drive, including an armed robbery and a separate attempted robbery. Detectives are seeking the public's help to identify the suspect responsible for these high-stress incidents.

The first incident, reported as an attempted robbery, took place in early October 2025, where a suspect demanded money from employees but fled without taking any cash. A subsequent incident on October 22, 2025, escalated to an armed robbery when the suspect brandished a weapon, threatening employees before fleeing the scene with an undisclosed amount of cash.

Police Response and Suspect Description

In both instances, officers responded quickly to the Cromwell Drive location, securing the perimeter and interviewing shaken staff members. Fortunately, no injuries were reported during either confrontation, though the presence of a weapon has raised safety concerns in the community.

Detectives describe the suspect as a male of medium build, wearing dark clothing and a face covering during the incidents. Investigators are currently analyzing surveillance footage from the store and surrounding shopping plaza to obtain a clearer description of the individual and any get-away vehicle.

Community Safety Appeal

Norfolk Police are asking anyone who was in the area of Cromwell Drive during these incidents, or who has information about the suspect, to contact the Norfolk Crime Line. Police stress that even seemingly minor observations could be crucial to resolving the investigation and ensuring the safety of retail workers and shoppers.