An approaching police car disrupted an armed robbery attempt Thursday night on Johnson Street, and police are seeking the suspect.

Around 11 p.m. Thursday, Jimmy Coleman was in his vehicle outside his Johnson Street home when an "unknown black male wearing all black, with a handgun" approached him, Statesboro Public Safety Director Wendell Turner said.

"The offender made an ambiguous demand and struck Coleman in the face with the handgun," Turner said said. "Coleman and the offender then observed a Statesboro Police Department patrol vehicle approaching in the area, at which point the offender fled the scene on foot."

In the meantime, Coleman's girlfriend called for help and Statesboro Police Officer Louis Parker and Detective Kevin Weatherly arrived to process the scene.

"Coleman's injuries were superficial, and he did not request medical services," Turner said.

Police were unable to locate the offender, and sent a Nixle alert shortly before 1 a.m. Friday so the public would be aware of the incident. The alert included the offender's description: black male, 5 feet 10 inches, thin build, with dreadlocks and a goatee, and wearing all black.

Anyone with information regarding the robbery attempt is asked to contact the Statesboro Police Department Investigations Bureau at (912) 764-9911. Tips may also be submitted anonymously to website www.tipsoft.com or sent by text. Text messages should start with "TIPSSPD" and be sent to 74637 (CRIMES). All information is strictly confidential.

Anyone can receive Nixle alerts at no charge. To get alerts from the Statesboro Police Department, text "30458" to 888777.

Holli Deal Bragg may be reached at (912) 489-9414.