In brief: Police seek ID of man in video

Video released Thursday shows a masked gunman robbing a north Spokane grocery store Tuesday night.

Police hope someone can provide tips about the robbery, which occurred about 10 p.m. at Empire Foods, 5434 N. Nevada St., and terrified the clerk, police said.

The gunman is shown throwing a bag to the woman then waving the weapon in her face as she and another woman give him cash from the register.

The gunman fled on foot; a witness chased him for several blocks, losing sight in the 1200 block of East Rowan Avenue, police said. A K-9 tracked the robber’s scent into the street, where police believe he may have hopped in a getaway car.

The robber is described as a white man, 6 feet tall with a thin build and wearing a black coat, black hooded sweatshirt, black mask and dark pants.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Check at (509) 456-2233. To view the video, visit spokesman.com/ blogs/sirens.

Senate panel OKs U.S. attorney pick

The Senate Judiciary Committee has approved Assistant U.S. Attorney Wendy Olson’s nomination to become next U.S. attorney for the District of Idaho.

U.S. Rep. Walt Minnick’s office confirmed the committee’s decision Thursday. Olson’s nomination must now be confirmed by the full U.S. Senate.

The White House announced Olson’s nomination in March, saying she would be resolute in the pursuit of justice and serve Idaho with distinction.

If confirmed, Olson would replace Tom Moss, who announced his retirement two years ago but has continued to serve until his successor is found.

Olson has been with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Idaho since 1997 and became senior litigation counsel in 2006.