Gunman sought in robbery, robbery try within 40 minutes, cops say

Two robbery incidents in 40 minutes.

That’s what police said a gunman committed Tuesday evening in Freeport — and now they’re searching for him.

The first robbery took place when the suspect, wearing dark clothing, a mask and gloves, entered Crosstown Liquor on South Main Street at about 6 p.m., flashed a silver handgun, and demanded cash. The female employee complied.

Then, Nassau County police said, the same suspect entered a Sunoco gas station on Atlantic Avenue at about 6:40 p.m. — and demanded cash from the 55-year-old attendant.

In that case, police said, the employee swatted at the gun. The suspect fled without taking anything. A customer was in the store at the time.

There were no injuries in either incident, police said.

Police are asking anyone with information regarding the crimes to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS. All calls will remain confidential.

By John Valenti

john.valenti@newsday.com

John Valenti, a reporter at Newsday since 1981, has been honored nationally by the Associated Press and Society of the Silurians for investigative, enterprise and breaking news reporting, as well as column writing, and is the author of “Swee'pea,” a book about former New York playground basketball star Lloyd Daniels. Valenti is featured in the Emmy Award-winning ESPN 30-for-30 film “Big Shot.”