BY ALEX PIAZZA
apiazza@record-eagle.com
INTERLOCHEN — Deputies are studying surveillance video in an attempt to identify two men who robbed an Interlochen gas station at gunpoint.
One suspect pointed a long gun at a gas station clerk at the Interlochen EZ Mart along U.S. 31 early Monday and demanded money, said Grand Traverse County sheriff's Lt. Bryan Marrow. Both suspects fled and deputies had yet to arrest them Monday afternoon.
"Oh my gosh, I just got goose bumps," said Cindy Stroh after hearing of the armed robbery. "It's a smaller community. You don't expect anything like that will happen."
Stroh works at nearby 4 Taste Fusion Bistro and said she frequents the Interlochen EZ Mart each day to fill up her tank or pick up a snack.
"That's just across the street," she said. "Who's to say the same won't happen here?"
Interlochen EZ Mart employees refused to comment, while Blarney Castle Oil representatives didn't return repeated calls.
A tracking dog followed the suspects to the intersection of U.S. 31 and M-37. Authorities are unsure if the suspects parked a getaway vehicle nearby.
Detectives remained on the scene for several hours in search of possible evidence.
"They were in and out," said sheriff's Capt. Dave Meachum. "Most armed robberies are pretty darn short."
Meachum today plans to release EZ Mart surveillance video of the robbery, a move he hopes will generate more information.
"We already have a few tips rolling in here, but that's going to generate a lot of interest for us," Meachum said.
Detectives also continue to scour nearby neighborhoods in search of the suspects. Both men are between 5'9" and 5'10" and of medium build, and both wore black clothing.
Anyone with information on the armed robbery is asked to call the Silent Observer Tip Line at 947-8477.
