Photo: ultramarinfoto / E+ / Getty Images
Lake Buena Vista, FL - A man allegedly robbed the Paddlefish restaurant at Disney Springs in Lake Buena Vista early Monday morning, reportedly using scuba gear to access and leave the premises.
According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded around 12:10 a.m. after two employees reported a robbery.
The restaurant was closed at the time, and no patrons were present.
Surveillance footage shows a suspect wearing a black wetsuit, goggles, gloves, and tight clothing, appearing to spray paint a security camera.
The suspect is described as approximately 5 feet 10 inches tall with a slim build.
Investigators say he allegedly swam to the restaurant on the pond outside the steamboat-style building, stashed his scuba gear, and entered the manager’s office while the night’s cash was being counted for deposit.
The suspect reportedly tied up two employees in a corner of the office and instructed them to close their eyes.
No weapons were observed, and the employees were not injured.
Within two minutes, the man allegedly left the building with between $10,000 and $20,000 in cash.
Authorities believe he may have put the scuba gear back on and swum into the pond to flee the scene.
A search immediately following the robbery did not locate the suspect.
Paddlefish, operated by Levy Restaurants, reopened to guests at noon the same day.
Orange County deputies continue to investigate the incident, and anyone with information is encouraged to contact law enforcement.