UPDATE 8/30/13: Robber arrested.
After receiving tips from the Community, Henrico Police Detectives identified Mr. Michael Bolling Bishop as the man who robbed the Union First Market Bank in the morning hours of August 29, 2013.
Bishop was charged with robbery after he was located at 4:15 PM later the same date in the 5200 block of Brook Road.
Henrico Police Detectives investigation also determined that Bishop was responsible for a robbery at Trader Joes that occurred on August 22, 2013, around 8:10 PM, in the 11300 block of W. Broad Street.
Bishop passed a note demanding money, indicating he had a gun and left the store with an undisclosed amount of money. Bishop was charged yesterday with this robbery as well.
SHORT PUMP, Va. (WTVR) -- Police said a man claiming to be armed walked into the Trader Joe's in Short Pump Thursday evening and passed a note to an employee demanding cash.
Even though dozens of customers were in the store, police said the robber was able to get away almost unnoticed likely because when the crime occurred.
Nancy Sharigian, who owns the nearby “Life Is Good” shop, said what happened was scary. However, she realized four years ago the advantages of opening up her shop next to Trader Joe’s.
Some Trader Joe's customers like Kirsten Nease were stunned the robbery happened just after 8 p.m. when it was still light outside.
"I don't know if it’s still a sign of the economy or just people more desperate at this point," said Nease.
Laura Barrett, another frequent Trader Joe’s shopper said, she could not believe someone hit her favorite place to stock up on groceries.
What's surprised many is the fact not only was this robbery in daylight, but it happened in an area that many consider extremely busy.
"I just think it’s really brazen to come in and do something like that and with all the people around," said Sharigian.
CBS 6 crime expert Steve Neal said a daytime robbery probably does increase the brazenness or recklessness of the person involved in the crime.
After the robbery, Sharigian is reminding her employees to be extra vigilant.
Police said the suspect got away with an undisclosed amount of cash.
If you have information about the robbery, call Crime Stoppers at 804-780-1000.
