Authorities release photos from attempted robbery

The Manatee County Sheriff's Office is seeking information about an attempted robbery that occurred around 12:34 a.m. today.

A sheriff's office report states a white female entered the newly opened Walmart store in Ranch Lake Plaza, approached the cashier, implied she was armed with a weapon and demanded money. The cashier was unable to open the register and the female fled to a waiting vehicle.

The investigation is ongoing and investigators are collecting numerous pieces of evidence. Authorities released surveillance pictures this afternoon.

A similar incident, with the same suspect, occurred around 1 a.m. at the Walmart at 2911 53rd Ave. E., Bradenton, farther west.

No money was taken at either Walmart.

Anyone with information is being asked to call the sheriff's office at 747-3011 or Crime Stoppers at 866-634-TIPS.

Contact Pam Eubanks at [email protected].