Law Enforcement Searches Lilydale Regional, Cherokee Heights Park for Robbery Suspect

The search for a suspect that Monday afternoon stretches from the High Bridge to this evening, according to police.

The suspect is described as about 30-years-old, white male, balding, with a gray shirt and pants, possibly jeans.  

Chief Mike Aschenbrener and St. Paul Police Officer John Keating provided information on the ongoing search at a press conference at Harriet Island.

Keating said the suspect is being sought after involvement in “at least one robbery” and a police chase that meandered through northern Dakota County, topping out at speeds of 75-80 miles per hour on Highway 52.

Aschenbrener said the construction on Highway 52 may have held the suspect’s speed down.

The owner of Mendota Liquors was able to provide an "excellent" vehicle and suspect description, in addition to a license plate number after he was robbed about 2:30 p.m. this afternoon, said the chief.

The vehicle description matched a “call to locate vehicle” put out yesterday by Eagan Police in the Rosemount area.

Aschenbrener said that there’s no indication that the public should be concerned for their safety, and it’s possible that the suspect is trying to make his way home.

Agencies involved include Mendota Heights PD, St. Paul Police Department, Minnesota State Patrol, Ramsey County Sheriff, Rosemount Police Department, South St. Paul Police Department, Eagan Police Department and Metro Transit Police.

Aschenbrener said the search is taking time due to the steepness and wooded nature of the park and bluff line.

“It’s a beautiful park ...” Aschenbrener said, “Today is not a good day to visit.”