The individual suspected of robbing Hollywood Casino & Hotel in Lawrenceburg, Ind. Authorities have designated Saturday.
Daniel Birdseye, 39, faced charges for armed robbery with a dangerous weapon and for battery against a public safety officer, as reported by Ohio TV station WLWT.
Witnesses stated that the armed suspect asked for money from the staff at the casino cage around 7:40 p.m.
It’s uncertain how much, if any, cash was taken. There were unverified accounts that Birdseye attempted to seize a hostage prior to fleeing down a corridor. He fled through an exit prior to ultimately being apprehended by local authorities.
Terrified guests sprinted to the casino exits or sought refuge by lying on the floor or crouching under tables, a witness named Chris Simon reported to Ohio TV network WCPO.
Birdseye was captured around 10 p.m., as stated in reports.
Drones and Dogs Useful in Locating
Officials employed specially trained dogs, a drone, and a helicopter to look for Birdseye.
"The suspect fled into the Oxbow area just east of the casino here, it’s kind of the river bottoms, kind of rough terrain, so very helpful having the drone out there and the canine to track the subject,” Dearborn County Sheriff Shane McHenry told Ohio TV station WXIX.
Although no shots were fired, initial reports indicate that an alert for an active shooter was announced over the casino's public address system at one point.
Birdseye was arrested at the Dearborn County Jail, and his case has been handed to local prosecutors. Initial reports indicate that no other suspects were involved in the robbery.
Reported Injuries
At least one individual was hurt in the occurrence.
According to WCPO, he was characterized as an old man who sustained injuries after tumbling onto the casino floor. Law enforcement and casino officials have not yet disclosed any further details about the incident.
"While we cannot comment on the specifics of yesterday’s events, we are incredibly thankful for the decisive response by numerous team members, law enforcement, and Indiana Gaming Commission personnel to protect our patrons and staff,” Hollywood Casino General Manager Mike Galle said in a statement released on Sunday.
The investigation is being led by the Indiana Gaming Commission. Law enforcement from Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio reacted to the theft.
The gaming establishment, situated on the Ohio River that divides Indiana and Kentucky, is now operating during its usual hours.