Lowe’s clerk runs away, robber leaves empty-handed

Surveillance photo of what's believed to be suspect's car

Citrus County Sheriff’s Office deputies are actively searching for the suspect in an attempted robbery at Lowe’s on Tuesday.

Authorities have identified the suspect as John William Campbell, 36, of Inverness, who may be driving a red 1999 Ford Escort station wagon, with Florida tag E838KD.

Citrus County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Gail Tierney said Campbell entered the home improvement store on East Gulf to Lake Highway at about 4:45 p.m. and approached the customer service desk. He demanded cash, while threatening the clerk that he had a gun, Tierney said.

No weapon was ever displayed. The alarmed woman ran away from Campbell, and he left the store empty-handed and on foot.

Campbell is described as a white male, 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighs about 170 pounds. He has brown hair and brown eyes, and is also considered a person of interest in Tuesday’s suspicious death at a residence on East Nugget Lane.

Anyone with information about Campbell’s whereabouts is asked to call 911 or 352-726-1121 right away. Do not approach or confront the subject, as he may be armed and dangerous.

Or contact Crime Stoppers of Citrus County, Inc. Report your tip by texting CITRUS to 274637 (Crimes), clicking on www.crimestopperscitrus.com or calling 1-888-ANY-TIPS toll-free. Tipsters may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $1,000.