Three males dressed in dark clothing, one armed with a shotgun, entered and robbed the Grocery Outlet on Aurora early this morning before fleeing.

Just before 7:00 this morning, three black males, wearing dark hooded sweatshirts with the hoods up and dark jeans, entered the Grocery Outlet store in the 13200 Block of Aurora Avenue North. The store had not yet opened for business, but employees were inside getting ready for the business day. One of the suspects was armed with a shotgun.

The employees were ordered into the office and forced to open the store safe. One of the employees was struck in the face by one of the suspects. That employee was later examined by Seattle Fire Department, but declined any further medical attention.

The suspects fled out of the store on foot and into a waiting car.

Robbery detectives responded to the location and processed the scenes. This remains and active and on going robbery investigation. Anyone with information about this crime is asked to call 911 or the Robbery Unit at (206) 684-5535.