Mendota Liquors Robbed Monday

Editor's Note: We'll post updates as the police department releases more information.

Mendota Liquors owner Patrick Soeun tried to play it cool, but when a man threatened to kill him Monday afternoon if Souen didn't hand over the contents of the cash register, he complied.

The suspect then drove off in a white SUV. Police have followed the suspect to the Cherokee Heights Park/Lilydale Regional Park area, where the suspect is believe to be on foot.

Soeun said the store, located in Mendota Plaza, has been open for 16 years, and never been robbed.

A man dressed in "business casual" walked up to the counter and asked for a bottle of Hennessy with his hands in his pockets, according to Soeun. Then, Soeun said the man said to give him the money in the register or he would kill him.

Soeun said his first reaction was "Are you serious?" The suspect repeated his demand, and Soeun complied.

One hand remained in the man's pocket through the encounter, said Soeun, but he did not see a gun.

After the suspect left the store, Soeun was able to get a description of the getaway vehicle, a white SUV, and a license plate number.

then picked up the suspect's trail.

The suspect led police through Mendota Heights, Eagan, Inver Grove Heights and West St. Paul.

Police have set up a perimeter in the area where the suspect is believed to be on foot.

Souen said he plans to finish out the day behind the counter. "We're open," he said.