NORMAL - A man with a gun was apparently targeting an illegal, high-stakes poker game when he robbed a local business earlier this week, police said Wednesday.

The suspect got away with a "substantial amount" of cash during Monday night's heist at Prime Time Pizza, 122 E. Beaufort St., Normal Police Sgt. Scott Johnson said.

"Let's just say it wasn't a nickel and dime game of poker," Johnson said when asked to describe how much money was at Monday's game.

Johnson said the suspect made six people empty their pockets before leaving with cash from the Texas Hold ‘Em style tournament.

The man, who concealed his face with a mask or scarf of some sort, ran from the business and was last seen heading west near the Constitution Trail.

Police used a dog to track him shortly after the robbery was reported, but he was able to elude authorities, Johnson said.

The owner of Prime Time Pizza could not be reached Wednesday to comment on the robbery or gambling going on at his business.

Investigators interviewed the people who participated in Monday's game and developed a couple leads to follow, Johnson said.

"We were given a name or two of possible suspects, but this was a well-known game that's been going on," Johnson said. "That's what is going to make this investigation difficult."

Poker games are considered illegal gambling in Illinois, but Johnson said he's unsure if any of the participants will charged with a crime.

The McLean County State's Attorney's Office will review the case and ultimately make the final determination, Johnson said.

"There are probably these games going on all over town," Johnson said. "If we hear about them we'll investigate, but we usually wouldn't know unless something like this happens or we get a tip."