The Laurel Police Department is asking for the public’s help in locating the person responsible for robbing a woman outside a local grocery store.

Detective Kevin Flynn with the Laurel Police Department said the robbery occurred on Thursday in the Gardiner Center.

Flynn, who is handling the criminal investigation into the incident, said about 5 p.m. on Thursday, an armed robbery was reported in the parking lot of the SaveRite Grocery Store on Beacon Street.

“A female reported that she was approached in the parking lot of the SaveRite on Beacon Street by a black male,” Flynn said. “The suspect supposedly was acting like he wanted to sell a laptop computer.

“The victim reported that the man had his hand under the front of his shirt like he had a gun, and demanded her cash,” the detective explained. “The victim gave the robber her money.”

Officials said the suspect reportedly left the scene in a possible 2008 or ‘09 Dodge Avenger.

Flynn said on the back of the vehicle where the tag is supposed to be there was a “Tag Applied For” sign.

According to the victim, the suspect reportedly had a FedEx packing box that he said the computer was in.

Flynn said no shots were fired and no one was reportedly injured in the incident.

Police said the same suspect is believed to have “possibly been in the Wal-Mart parking lot on Highway 15 prior to going to the SaveRite.”

Anyone with information about this incident or the individual involved is asked to contact the Laurel Police Department’s investigation division at (601) 425-4711 or Crimestoppers at 601-428-STOP (7867).

Those who call Crimestoppers are not required to give their names. However, monetary rewards are issued for tips leading to arrests and convictions.

Flynn said residents are reminded to be observant of their surroundings when out shopping.