LAKE BUENA VISTA, FL – Authorities in Orange County are on the hunt for a suspect believed to have executed a daring heist at Disney Springs. The incident, almost too surreal to believe, unfolded late Sunday night when a man reportedly swam to the Paddlefish Restaurant, disguised in a wetsuit, and made off with a significant sum of money.
As the sun rose Monday, the Paddlefish Restaurant, a well-known replica steamboat, was back in business. However, just hours earlier, it was the scene of an unusual crime. According to deputies, the suspect emerged from the water, removed his wetsuit, and proceeded to rob the establishment of at least $10,000.
The heist occurred shortly after midnight, as the restaurant’s manager was finalizing the night’s earnings. A heavily redacted police report indicates that the suspect managed to spray paint a security camera before confronting staff. He then coerced two employees into a corner, instructing them to shut their eyes.
The entire robbery was over in about two minutes. Once the suspect fled, the employees contacted authorities. Witnesses described the man as wearing regular clothing and a beanie post-robbery. Investigators believe he donned scuba gear to make his escape back into the water, although his destination remains a mystery.
Thankfully, no injuries were reported during the incident. Both the restaurant’s owner and Disney representatives have directed all inquiries to local law enforcement, who are actively pursuing the case.
Authorities are appealing to the public for any information that might lead to the suspect’s capture.