Press release from the Humboldt Cunty Sheriff’s Office:

On Thursday, Oct. 24 at about 7 p.m., Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) deputies responded to the report of a robbery at Smug’s Pizza on the 2700 block of Central Ave. in McKinleyville.

Employees reported the incident shortly after it occurred, prompting immediate response from deputies in the area. According to the employees, the suspect entered the market and brandished a knife, demanding that the register be opened for him, to which the employees complied. The suspect then reached into the drawer and took money from the register before fleeing on foot; he was last seen in the area of Reasor Rd. Deputies arrived on the scene to search for the suspect within minutes of the 911 call but were unable to locate a person matching the given description.

The suspect is described as a Hispanic male adult with dark complexion and brown eyes. He was last seen wearing a black ski mask, red and black plaid hooded sweatshirt, and pants (unknown color). If anyone has information about this crime or a potential suspect, they should contact HCSO.

This case is still under investigation.

Anyone with information about this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office at (707) 445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at (707) 268-2539.