Two men arrested after attempting to rob two downtown Chattanooga businesses at gunpoint

Kevin Perkins

A man armed with a handgun attempted to rob two downtown businesses early this morning, according to Chattanooga police.

Around 5 a.m. Tuesday, a man wielding a handgun walked into the lobby of the Courtyard by Marriott hotel at 200 Chestnut Street and demanded cash from the clerk at the front desk, according to police. The clerk was unable to open the register, and the man fled.

About 20 minutes later, the same suspect walked into the McDonald's at 1117 E. 3rd Street, displayed the gun and demanded cash. He left with an undisclosed amount of money, but was quickly spotted by police in a dark Buick.

Officers cornered the vehicle in a parking lot and discovered two men inside. The men, 27-year-old Rodrick Smith and 36-year-old Kevin Perkins, surrendered without incident.

Both suspects will be charged with aggravated robbery, felony evading, attempted aggravated robbery, and two counts of criminal conspiracy.

Stay with the Times Free Press for updates on this developing story.