About 8.40pm on Thursday, a masked man confronted two employees at the entrance to the IGA supermarket on East Street.

The man produced a sawn-off rifle and demanded entry. On gaining entry to the business, he demanded cash and cigarettes. 

He was given an amount of cash and cigarettes before fleeing on foot. 

As he left the store the man shot at a glass door before running away.

Chief Inspector John Wadsworth from Griffith Local Area Command said police attended and established a crime scene, which was examined by forensic specialists.

“All resources are being poured into this matter given the extremely serious nature of a shot fired and the obvious danger to innocent victims, especially the young people inside,” Chief Inspector Wadsworth said.

“Further, we’re fully aware this person has a firearm and a propensity to use it –  the community expects us to find this person as soon as possible given the danger posed.

“Police acknowledge that expectation and are doing everything to locate this person but we do rely on community assistance and we urge anyone with any information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or their local police station.

“Any information whatsoever will be appreciated given this is such a serious matter.”

The man is described as being of Caucasian appearance with a slim build and scabs on his forearms. He was wearing a black balaclava, and was carrying a black-and-blue coloured bag.