Two separate robberies overnight

(COLUMBIA, MO) -

Columbia Police officers responded to two separate robberies at Columbia businesses overnight.

The first call officers were dispatched to came in at 9:44 p.m. from 716 Business Loop 70 East, Auto Zone. The investigation revealed a male suspect entered the business and approached an employee at the register. The suspect threatened the employee and demanded money. The suspect retrieved an undisclosed amount of money before fleeing the area on foot in an eastbound direction.

The suspect was described as a light skinned black male, approximately 5'10" tall with a medium size build. He was last seen wearing jeans and a light colored jacket.

The second call came in today at 1:53 a.m. from 2709 East Broadway, Break Time Convenience Store. This investigation revealed a male suspect entered the business and approached an employee at the register. The suspect demanded money and received an undisclosed amount before fleeing the area on foot in a westbound direction. A K-9 track was conducted in the area, however, the suspect was not located.

The suspect is described as a black male between 5'3" and 5'8" tall with a medium size build. He was last seen wearing cloth around his head and a light colored shirt.

Columbia Police Criminal Investigations Division are continuing to investigate these robberies. Being the investigation is still early on, it is unclear whether or not these two incidents are related.

If you have an information regarding these robberies, please contact the Columbia Police Department at (573) 874-7652, or call CrimeStoppers at (573) 875-TIPS (8477) to remain anonymous.

2017-002449 & 2017-002460

Location: 716 Business Loop 70 East