Champaign, IL – University Police are investigating an armed robbery that took place early Friday morning at Joe’s Brewery, a popular bar near the University of Illinois campus.
The incident prompted an Illini-Alert emergency notification, reaching all students, faculty, and staff. Police officers responded to the bar at 706 S Fifth St. at 1:01 a.m., arriving on scene within one minute.
Upon arrival, officers interviewed employees who reported that a man entered through an exit door. The suspect allegedly approached the cash register, pointed a gun at an employee, and demanded money. After taking cash, he exited through the same door. The suspect reportedly threatened three employees with the weapon but did not fire any shots.
University Police are actively patrolling the area while investigators analyze security footage and license plate data for leads. They encourage anyone with information to contact the University of Illinois Police Department at 217-333-1216 or Champaign County Crime Stoppers at 217-373-8477. Tips can be submitted anonymously via the P3 Tips app.
The investigation remains ongoing, and police are seeking any additional video or photographic evidence.
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