Customers and employees are recovering after a violent armed robbery at a Lakeland Chili's restaurant.
Police said three armed men wearing masks confronted an employee behind the restaurant located at 3980 U.S. Hwy 98 North on Tuesday around midnight.
They forced him inside, then forced five other employees and three customers into the kitchen.
One robber allegedly struck a worker in the head with a gun, causing a minor injury.
The robber stole money from the restaurant and all nine victims.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Lakeland Police Department at 863-834-6900, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-226-8477.