Patrons of the Mudville Grille said that a man burst into the restaurant swinging a samurai sword and made off with about $32 from the scared crowd.

Witnesses said the man whipped the sword across two tables, clearing the tabletops before slamming his hand on the counter.

Several patrons emptied their pockets and the man grabbed the cash and fled in a green minivan.

It was later found abandoned with the sword inside.

Police have identified a suspect in that robbery, but he has not been arrested.