Authorities are seeking a man who reportedly stole several hundred dollars from the Quality Inn, 1200 W. Gannon Drive, in Festus Tuesday morning (Sept. 18). The man allegedly jumped over the front counter, grabbed the cash and left with it, Festus Police Chief Tim Lewis said.
Investigators can tell from viewing surveillance footage that the suspect waited for an opportunity to steal the money, Lewis said.
“The guy showed up about 9:30 a.m. and walked around,” Lewis said today (Sept. 19). “You see him walking around and as soon as the clerk walks away about 9:45, he jumps over the counter, opens a (cash) drawer and steals the money and runs out. An employee chased after him, but lost him behind Imo’s (a nearby restaurant).
“The suspect can be seen coming back and getting in a car, a silver Buick of some kind.”
Lewis said the suspect is black and in his mid to late 20s. He was wearing a maroon shirt with the words “Southern Illinois” on the front. He also was wearing a black ball cap.
Anyone with information is urged to call Festus Police at 636-937-3646.