Staff report from ASO social media post

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Alachua County Sheriff’s Office Deputies are at the Eastside Food Store (3423 SE Hawthorne Rd), investigating an armed robbery that occurred just before noon.

The business reported that two black males, wearing all black and black ski masks, entered the store, one armed with a handgun, and demanded cash. Both suspects fled on foot in a southbound direction.

Residents in the area are asked to remain vigilant and report any suspicious person(s) to the 24-hour communications center at 352-955-1818 (option 5).

The scene is very active with K-9 Deputies on an active track and an Alachua County Fire Rescue drone unit assisting with aerial support.