Police have called the actions of a fast food outlet employee who chased an armed man after a robbery at Wallsend "brave" but have urged people not to take unnecessary risks if confronted with a similar situation.
Investigators are hunting for a man believed to be aged between 25 and 30 who held-up the Henny Penny store on Cowper Street about 8.30pm on Wednesday.
The man entered the eatery as two staff members were packing up for the night. The store was closed when he entered with a gun and threatened the female employees before stealing a small amount of cash and a handbag belonging to one of the workers.
Police said there was a "short struggle" between the bandit and one of the staff members before he fled the premises on foot - pursued by the worker along Irvine Street.
The thief made it to a nearby getaway car - being driven by an unknown accomplice - and escaped the scene.
Newcastle City Police District Acting Inspector Mick Kelly said he believed the thief and driver may have been waiting for the store to close "for the opportune time" to strike.
Acting Inspector Kelly said the Henny Penny employees involved in the heist were "shaken up" but uninjured.
"There was a bit of a physical struggle with one of the staff members challenging the offender and obviously trying to retain the handbag," he said.
"I'd certainly urge the public and any employees not to challenge any offenders in a crime - certainly one armed with a firearm.
"It was very brave of the staff member, we'd certainly discourage it though - it's very dangerous."
The thief is described as being aged between 25 and 30, 180 to 185 centimetres tall and with a medium build. He was wearing a grey hooded jumper, a face covering and long black pants at the time of the incident.
Police said they were "still following up" with regard to details of the getaway car.
"At this stage we're reviewing CCTV, speaking to witnesses, urging any witnesses in the area to come forward and obviously we're looking at the vehicle," Acting Inspector Kelly said.
Anyone with information that could help police is being asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
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