News Summary
Authorities are searching for a man implicated in a robbery at the Paddlefish restaurant located in Disney Springs. The incident occurred just after midnight when the suspect, described as a white male in scuba gear, stole between $10,000 and $20,000 in cash. Witnesses reported the unusual attire of the robber, who forced two employees to kneel during the theft. The investigation is ongoing, and the sheriff’s office urges anyone with information to come forward.
Orlando, Florida – Authorities are actively searching for a man linked to a robbery at the Paddlefish restaurant in Disney Springs. The incident occurred just after midnight on Monday, according to information provided by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. Victims described the suspect entering the establishment, stealing cash, and escaping the scene without causing injuries.
The robbery took place after the restaurant had closed, with no patrons present at the time. Witnesses reported a striking image of the robber, who was dressed in scuba diving gear, complete with goggles, a wetsuit, gloves, and a scuba diving hood. This unusual attire raises questions about how he approached the restaurant, as sources suggest he likely swam up to it in the early hours of the morning.
Victims characterized the suspect as a white male, approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall and weighing around 160 pounds. He was noted to be dressed entirely in black, wearing a blue hat, rubber gloves, and a ski mask, but was barefoot during the crime. During the robbery, the suspect reportedly forced two employees to kneel and close their eyes while he carried out the theft.
The amount stolen from Paddlefish is estimated to be between $10,000 and $20,000. After the robbery, the suspect allegedly re-equipped himself with his scuba gear and jumped back into the water. Despite a thorough search conducted by deputies in the area following the incident, the suspect was not located.
The sheriff’s office has classified the incident as a strong-arm robbery and grand theft, emphasizing that the suspect did not display any weapons during the crime. Following the event, Paddlefish restaurant resumed normal operations without noticeable changes in security measures.
Paddlefish, known for its seafood menu and unique setting on a “modern steamboat,” is located in Disney Springs, a well-known shopping and dining complex frequented by tourists because of its proximity to Orlando’s famous theme parks. Despite the robbery, the restaurant continued to serve guests throughout the day.
A representative from Paddlefish declined to provide any comments regarding the robbery, directing all inquiries to the sheriff’s office. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities actively pursuing leads to identify and apprehend the suspect.
This incident underscores the unusual nature of robberies in the area and has caught the attention of both local residents and patrons of Disney Springs, raising concerns about safety in the popular tourist destination.
The Orange County Sheriff’s Office is encouraging anyone with information about the incident to come forward, as they continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this unusual robbery.
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Scuba Suit Robbery at Disney Springs Restaurant
Additional Resources
- NBC News
- Wikipedia: Robbery
- Orlando Sentinel
- Google Search: Disney Springs robbery
- Fox Business
- Google Scholar: robbery investigation
- Orlando Weekly
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Robbery
- Patch
- Google News: scuba gear robbery
- Divernet
- Google Search: robbery Disney Springs
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
