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Columbia, Mo. - When the would-be robber tried – and failed – to take a Petromart customer's wallet, he demanded the cashier give him money.

Just after 11 p.m. Monday, Columbia police officers went to the Petromart at 3850 Range Line Street. Their investigation revealed a black male with tight braids entered the store and attempted to take a wallet from a customer at the counter waiting for his change. The customer grabbed his wallet back, then went outside to call the police.

That's when the man turned to the clerk and demanded money from the register. Although he didn't mention or display a weapon, he had his hand under his shirt, indicating he had a weapon.

The man was last seen running south behind Landmark Bank with an undisclosed amount of money.

SUSPECT DESCRIPTION:
Black male, light-complected, 5’0", with tight braids. Last seen wearing a striped shirt, jeans and tennis shoes. The suspect used a white shirt or towel to hide his face.