Armed robbery at Popeye's in Niles, employee confronts suspect

NILES, Mich. -Niles Police responded to an emergency call of an armed robbery at Popeye's Chicken on South 11th Street at around 4:30 p.m. Monday.

Upon arrival, authorities learned the suspect, a younger white man, had left the scene in a vehicle with at least three other people.

Witnesses told officers the suspect entered the restaurant and walked through the employees-only door into the order-taking area while brandishing a knife and demanding money.

A 30-year-old male Popeye's employee confronted the suspect and a physical altercation ensued.

The employee was cut by the suspect, but the injuries were deemed non-life threatening.

The employee received a total of 27 stitches in his hand as a result of the attempted robbery. 

Police say the employee's actions contributed to the suspect fleeing the scene empty handed.

Thanks to a tip, the Niles Police, in collaboration with the Michigan State Police and the Cass County Sheriff's Department, located the suspect and the suspected vehicle in the 2500 block of Juniper Road not long after.

The suspect, a minor, was taken into custody and charged with armed robbery.

He was taken to the Berrien County Juvenile Center as he awaits further court proceedings.

The Niles Police Department says they commend the bravery of the Popeye's employees and thanks the community for their vigilance and assistance in providing information that led to the suspect's arrest.