You were robbed of I-bar at gunpoint, UIPD investigation

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) – University of Illinois Police are investigating after a Campustown bar was robbed at gunpoint early Friday morning.

The robbery took place at Joe’s Brewery at Fifth and Green Streets. UIPD officials said the department received a report of an armed robbery at the bar at 1 a.m. and an officer arrived on scene within a minute. The suspect had fled at that time.

Bar employees told the officer that a man entered the building through an exit and pointed a gun at three employees, one of whom was standing at a cash register. The man took money from the cash register and fled through the same door he had entered through. No shots were fired and no one was injured.

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The robbery prompted an Illini alert sent to all students, faculty and staff at 1:05 a.m. UIPD officers searched the area for the suspect, but he was never found. A follow-up Illini Alert sent at 1:51 a.m. stated that the suspect had apparently left the area and that it was safe to resume regular activities around Joe’s.

Investigators are reviewing security camera footage and data from automated license plate readers to find additional evidence. They are also looking for photos and images taken by witnesses.

Anyone with such photos or videos, or other information related to the robbery, is asked to contact the UIPD at 217-333-1216. Alternatively, witnesses can remain anonymous by submitting a tip to Champaign County Crime Stoppers at 217-373-8477 or visit their website.

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