Disney World waterfront restaurant robbed of $20k: thief sneaks in wearing scuba gear

09/18/2025

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Disney Springs Paddlefish restaurant robbed by scuba diver

A late-night thief in full scuba gear stunned staff at a waterfront Disney restaurant, fleeing with a large sum of cash in an audacious, short-lived heist that authorities are still probing.

What happened at the Disney Springs seafood spot

The incident unfolded shortly after midnight on Sept. 15 at Paddlefish, a seafood restaurant in Disney Springs. After closing, a manager and two employees were inside counting the day’s receipts when an intruder entered the office.

  • The suspect left with an estimated $10,000 to $20,000 in cash, according to local reports.
  • No diners were on site during the break-in.
  • The getaway reportedly lasted only minutes before the suspect vanished.

Video footage and the scuba disguise

Surveillance images show the individual covered head to toe. He wore a wetsuit, eye goggles and gloves, and appeared to spray something over a camera lens.

Photos shared with news outlets captured the masked figure in the dark suit. Witnesses and deputies described a man who took steps to avoid identification.

How staff were handled during the robbery

According to a deputy’s report cited by local TV, the intruder corralled employees into a corner and ordered them to close their eyes. Sources told reporters employees were tied up, though the copies of the official report contain heavy redactions.

Staff suffered no physical injuries and the assailant did not display any weapon, the report says. After the suspect left, employees freed themselves and called 911.

Eyewitness details and suspect description

Authorities describe the person as a slim male about 5’10”. Because the outfit concealed most features, the description remains limited.

  • Clothing: black wetsuit, goggles, gloves.
  • Height/build: roughly 5’10”, slim.
  • Behavior: covered camera, spoke to staff, tied occupants, exited quickly.

Escape route: swimming reported but not verified

An anonymous tip to a local station claimed the suspect swam across nearby water to get away while wearing the wetsuit. Deputies have not publicly confirmed that detail.

Restaurant operator and law enforcement response

Levy Restaurants, which runs Paddlefish, declined to elaborate, noting the matter is under active investigation. The Orange County Sheriff’s Office is leading the probe.

Police continue to review footage and interview witnesses to identify the perpetrator.

Potential charges and legal next steps

Local news reports say the individual could face a charge of third-degree grand theft if arrested. Investigators have not announced any arrests or additional suspects.

  • Case status: active investigation.
  • Possible charge: grand theft in the third degree.
  • Public appeal: authorities seek tips from anyone with information.

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