Garda appeal after man armed with hammer robs Athlone shop

Gardai in Athlone are appealing for information following a robbery of an Athlone shop in which a man armed with a hammer threatened staff before getting away with a sum of cash. 

The incident happened at the Centra convenience store on Church Street at approximately 7.20pm on Sunday evening last (February 9). 

Sergeant Andrew Haran of Athlone Garda Station said a male entered the shop during a spell of very bad weather, and he was heavily concealed at the time. 

Armed with the weapon, he demanded money from a member of staff and left on foot with a cash sum. 

Sergeant Haran said two vigilant citizens, who were aware of what had happened, followed the man in their car as he made his getaway down Northgate Street, through St Francis Terrace and onward towards the Fairgreen and Grace Park Road. 

He said the male who committed the crime was wearing a yellow jacket, but he discarded this shortly after the robbery. 

Gardai are examining CCTV footage from various locations in the town on the evening in question, and anyone who has any information is asked contact Athlone Garda Station on: 090 64 98550