Police investigating yesterday's robbery of the Mornington Night' N Day store have spoken with several people who saw the alleged offender before the incident.
A man walked into the shop just before 8am yesterday and brandished a firearm, demanding cigarettes, tobacco and cash from a female shop assistant.
Detective Sergeant Rob Hanna said this afternoon a man closely fitting the alleged offender's description was seen in a white sedan in Henderson Street, which runs behind the dairy on the south side of Eglinton Road, from between 6.30am and 6.45am yesterday.
During a detailed examination of the locality and streets surrounding the Night' N Day store, police found several similar pieces of wood with protruding nails.
"Police haven't ruled out that these items may have been brought to the scene and were of significance for the offender," Det Sgt Hanna said.
"When he was running away towards Macnee St and onto Henderson St after the robbery he was seen to throw a piece of wood with nails protruding from it, at a nearby vehicle with people in it."
The alleged offender is male, possibly in his twenties. He is believed to be Caucasian, approximately 175-185cm in height and of slim, athletic build.
He was wearing a distinctive multi-coloured hoodie with a white background and coloured design, and three-quarter trousers and boots. He was carrying a number of bags.
His left arm appeared to have markings on it.
"It's not clear whether these are natural markings, permanent tattoos or have been temporarily inked on," Det Sgt Hanna said.
Police are still keen to hear from anyone who has information that may assist with the inquiry.
"This was a brazen act that occurred at a busy time of the day in a busy part of town when there were many people around. Someone who hasn't yet come forward may have seen something that will assist in solving this crime."
People with any information that could help can contact the Southern District Command Centre on 03 471-5002. Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
