An alleged gunman has been charged with arson and an attempted robbery on a popular Gold Coast shopping street.
The incident began at 6.25pm yesterday when the 41-year-old allegedly entered a business on Surfers Paradise Boulevard armed with a gel blaster and a tube.
He is accused of assaulting a worker and demanding money from her and her 68-year-old boyfriend before leaving.
The alleged offender later returned to the business and a fight ensued between the offender and the 68-year-old man.
The injured man has non-life-threatening injuries to his face and neck.
The 41-year-old is then accused of setting fire to the lobby of the business before fleeing.
Police found him soon after at a property on Cavill Avenue and arrested him.
He is due to appear in court today on charges including attempted robbery, assault and obstructing a police officer.