A late-night scare at a downtown Portland Pizza Schmizza ended without injuries Wednesday when an employee refused to play along with an alleged armed robber and told him she would call police, prompting him to take off instead.
Portland police say a man walked into the Schmizza Pub & Grub near the Portland State University campus shortly before 10:45 p.m., showed a firearm and demanded property. When the worker responded that she would contact authorities, the suspect fled the scene before officers arrived.
According to KOIN, officers canvassed the surrounding area after the incident, but investigators have not announced any arrests. No injuries were reported.
Where It Happened
The attempted robbery took place at the Schmizza Pub & Grub at 415 SW Montgomery Street, a downtown spot that caters to nearby workers and Portland State students. The restaurant’s listing highlights extended evening hours and a steady late-night crowd. Pizza Schmizza's downtown page lists the shop’s address and hours.
Suspect Description And Police Appeal
Portland police described the suspect as a white male in his 30s or 40s, about 5-foot-8. Anyone who might recognize that description or who was in the area at the time is being asked to contact investigators.
KOIN reports that the employee’s decision to tell the man she would call police led him to leave the restaurant before officers reached the scene. Police reiterated that no one was hurt and that the investigation remains active.
Downtown Safety And Police Outreach
The incident comes as the Portland Police Bureau has recently sought the public’s help in other armed robbery investigations, asking residents to share any potentially useful information. In a Jan. 22 press release, the department highlighted that it accepts anonymous tips and provides direct contact information for witnesses. The Portland Police Bureau noted that even small details can assist detectives.
Investigators have not said whether any surveillance footage was recovered from the Schmizza location. Anyone who witnessed the incident or captured video in the area is asked to reach out to Portland police so detectives can follow up.
