Indiana Casino Robbery Suspect Identified, Booked Into Jail

Authorities have identified the man they believe held up Hollywood Casino & Hotel in Lawrenceburg, Indiana on Saturday.

According to Ohio TV station WLWT, Daniel Birdseye, 39, was charged with violence on a public safety official and robbery while carrying a deadly weapon.

Witnesses stated that at approximately 7:40 p.m., the suspect brandishing a gun demanded money from workers at the casino cage.

It's unclear if any money was taken at all. Unverified rumors stated that Birdseye attempted to take a hostage before scurrying down a hallway.He eventually got nabbed by local police after making his getaway through an exit.

A witness, Chris Simon, told Ohio TV station WCPO that terrified patrons fled toward the casino's doors or attempted to hide by laying on the floor or hiding behind tables. 

Birdseye was apprehended at about 10 p.m., according to reports.

 

Drone, Dogs Helpful in Tracking

Authorities used specially trained dogs, a drone, and a helicopter to search for Birdseye.

 

"The suspect fled into the Oxbow area just east of the casino here, it’s kind of the river bottoms, kind of rough terrain, so very helpful having the drone out there and the canine to track the subject,” Dearborn County Sheriff Shane McHenry told Ohio TV station WXIX.

 

According to early accounts, there was an alert for an active shooter broadcast on the casino's public address system at one point, but no shots were fired.

After being taken into custody in the Dearborn County Jail, Birdseye's case was given to the local prosecutors. Initial reports stated that no other individuals were involved in the holdup.


Reports of Injuries

The incident resulted in injuries to at least one individual.

According to WCPO, he was an old man who fell onto the casino floor and cut himself. Law enforcement and casino representatives have not yet provided any more information about the incident. 

 

"While we cannot comment on the specifics of yesterday’s events, we are incredibly thankful for the decisive response by numerous team members, law enforcement, and Indiana Gaming Commission personnel to protect our patrons and staff,” Hollywood Casino General Manager Mike Galle said in a statement released on Sunday

 

The investigation is being headed by the Indiana Gaming Commission. The robbery prompted the response of Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio police officers.

Located on the Ohio River, which divides Indiana and Kentucky, the gambling site is currently open during regular business hours.