Based on a release from the Gainesville Police Department
GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Gainesville police are searching for a man accused of threatening people inside a Burger King on West Newberry Road on Thursday evening.
Officers were dispatched around 6:10 p.m. to the restaurant at 6123 W. Newberry Road after receiving a report of a suspicious person, according to the Gainesville Police Department. While officers were on the way, they learned the man was reportedly armed and had threatened to hurt people inside the business.
Restaurant employees quickly evacuated both customers and staff. When officers arrived, the suspect was believed to be barricaded inside a restroom. Police, assisted by the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, searched the restaurant extensively but did not find him.
Police described the suspect as a slim Black man wearing a white shirt, black pants and black shoes, and carrying a black backpack.
Anyone who sees a person matching that description is urged to call 911 immediately. Police said a heavy law enforcement presence will remain in the area as the investigation continues.
