Some Rutherford Crossing McDonald's employees got a big surprise as they were closing the restaurant Monday night.

An armed man walked in and held them at gunpoint just before midnight.

Frederick County authorities say 35-year-old Christopher Bratton walked into the fast food restaurant just before midnight and demanded cash.

The Sterling resident allegedly held four employees at gunpoint with what appeared to be a weapon. Once Bratton got the money, he got into a car and drove away.

No customers where in the McDonald's at the time and no one was injured.

A Frederick County deputy who happened to be on Interstate 81 nearby got the call and responded while Bratton was still in the shopping center.

The deputy chased Bratton's vehicle around Rutherford Crossing. Authorities say, when Bratton tried to pull out onto Route 11, he hit a northbound car.

Authorities say he got out of his car and tried to steal another car but gave up and started running. After a foot pursuit, the deputy caught up with Bratton and arrested him.

The deputy's cruiser had to be towed from the scene because it developed a flat tire from jumping several curbs at Rutherford Crossing during the chase.

When authorities searched Bratton's car, they found what appeared to be a toy gun that looked like a real weapon on the passenger seat. The supposed weapon was actually an impact gun.

Officials say Bratton likely used the impact gun in the robbery.

Bratton is charged with robbery and eluding police. Authorities say after discussing the incident with officials from the Commonwealth Attorney's office, they are confident numerous additional charges will be filed.