Santa Ana police are searching for a would-be robber who tried to steal a 12-pack of beer but ended up throwing the cans at the store clerk.

The attempted robbery Nov. 25 began after the cashier asked the suspect for his identification while he was trying to buy cigarettes, according to Santa Ana police. Investigators released surveillance video Tuesday, Dec. 12, showing the altercation at Craig Liquor that turned violent after the suspect said he didn’t have his identification.

“I’ll get it for you,” the suspect can be heard in the surveillance video telling the cashier. But, instead, he retreats to the refrigerated drink area of the store at MacArthur Boulevard and Bristol Street.

The clerk follows him. They return to the counter with a case of beer.

Just as the clerk begins to ring up the beer, the suspect tries to grab the box. The two scuffle and the case drops to the floor, knocking over a counter display. The suspect grabs the cans and starts hurling them at the clerk.

“Call the police!” the clerk can be heard yelling, as he chases after the suspect, throwing beer cans back at him.

Santa Ana police said the suspect ran out of the store and fled in a green SUV. He is wanted on suspicion of attempted robbery, assault and battery and malicious damage. The clerk was hit multiple times but had minor injuries.

The suspect is described as an approximately 35-year-old Hispanic man with tattoos on both sides of his neck and his right calf. He is about 5 feet, 11 inches tall and about 200 pounds.

Anyone with information is asked to contact call 714-245-8647 or ldelisle@santa-ana.org. Those who want to stay anonymous can call Orange County Crime Stoppers at 1-855-TIPS OCCS.