Topeka Police are trying to find the man they believe robbed a local Blockbuster Video before failing in an attempt to hold up a nearby Hollywood Video.

Around 9:30 Tuesday evening, officers responded to an apparent robbery at the Blockbuster Video in the 3000 block of SW Topeka. The suspect approached the clerk with a semi-automatic handgun and demanded money, according to police reports.

A little over an hour later, police received another 911 call about an attempted robbery at a Hollywood Video, 5100 SW 29th. The robber again approached the clerk with a semi-automatic handgun, demanding.

After experiencing some complecations, the perpetrator fled before completing the crime. A citizen who had interrupted the robberywas able to help police track the suspect as he fled.

The witness was able to keep tabs on the suspect's escape, east down the 2800 block of Prairie, finally losing the latter when he cut between some apartments and jumped a fence.

Police describe the suspect as a an African-American male, about 5'10", and wearing a black hoodie. Though they have not been able to find the robber, authorities say they may have located the gun that was used in the crimes.

Anyone with information is asked to call detectives at 368-9400 or Crime Stoppers at 234-0007. Or, tips may be texted to Crime Stoppers at CRIMES (274637) and tyoe "TIP128" plus the message.