The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office received a call this morning at approximately 7:10 a.m. on a possible armed robbery at the Bi Lo Store located at 1667 Ooltewah-Ringgold Road. When deputies arrived on the scene they were advised by some vendors they found the store open but no employees could be located. A search found the employees (14) located in the meat cooler area of the store and some had been secured with zip ties (6-7). When several vendors arrived at the store this morning they noticed a silver 4-door car parked at the side/rear of the store. This vehicle is believed to belong to the suspects.

Information was relayed to law enforcement that the two armed black males attempted to rob the store although no money was taken. Several vendors did see two male parties at the rear of the store and think they exited there.

The investigation is on-going and other information will be released as it becomes available. No store video can be released at this time due to technical difficulties.