Suspect identity sought in Lebanon Mart burglary.
FAIRFIELD COUNTY – The Sheriff’s Office is seeking information on a burglary and an armed robbery at convenience stores in Fairfield County last week.
Burglary at Lebanon Mart
Three suspects used a pry bar to force entry into Lebanon Mart convenience store, located at 6058 Newberry Road, according to the Fairfield County Sheriff’s department. The break-in occurred on Wednesday, Jan. 23.
Upon gaining entry, the suspects used a chain attached to their vehicle to remove the ATM that was bolted to the floor. They also stole a safe containing two cash register drawers, money, and miscellaneous documents, along with approximately 200 packs of Newport cigarettes.
The suspects were of medium build and had their faces and hands covered according to the report. They were using a dark colored 2002-2006 Chevrolet Suburban. This burglary may also be associated with a burglary that occurred in Union County on the same date, Sheriff Will Montgomery said.
Armed Robbery at Grand Central Station
Surveillance video of suspect in Grand Central Station armed robbery on Jan. 24.
In a separate incident at about 2:16 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 24, a black male entered Grand Central Station, a convenience store located at exit 48 off of I-77 in Fairfield County. He presented a silver semi-automatic handgun covered in a thin black sock, and demanded money from two clerks. The suspect stated repeatedly, “Give me the money,” “I’m not playing” and “Hurry up, hurry up, hurry up,” according to the report.
After stealing approximately $600, the suspect left in a silver or grey Acura with tinted windows, driven by a second suspect. The suspect had short black hair and was wearing grey sweat pants, a black shirt, a dark grey wool type coat, and a black ski-type mask, the report stated.
To provide information about either crime anonymously through Midlands Crime Stoppers, call 1-888-CRIME-SC or visit www.midlandscrimestoppers.com and click Submit a Tip. Information can also be provided directly to Investigator Karen Castles with the Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office at 803-718-4102 of 803-635-4141 if anonymity and a reward is not desired.