Locked door thwarts robbery attempt at Newark gas station

Exxon gas station, 820 S. College Ave., Newark
Exxon gas station, 820 S. College Ave., Newark (Photo: Google maps)

NEWARK, DELAWARE (3/11/2016) A robbery attempt at an Exxon gas station was thwarted by a door kept locked since a robbery a week earlier, Newark police said Thursday.

Two men wearing hoods and bandannas and carrying a handgun tried to enter the store at 820 S. College Ave. about 12:23 a.m.

“The store, having been robbed a week prior, was keeping the doors locked at night while open. As the store clerk was behind the counter, the two suspects approached on foot and began pulling on the door. The unknown suspects ordered the clerk to open the door, but soon ran off as they were unsuccessful at gaining entry,” Sgt. Gerald J. Bryda said.

Both robbers were described as black and about 25 years old, with thin builds. One was wearing a black sweatshirt with the hood up and a white bandanna over his face, black pants and gloves.

The other, carrying the handgun, was wearing a red sweatshirt with the hood up, a green bandanna over his face and gloves.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective James Skinner at 302-366-7100 ext. 3135, or James.Skinner@cj.state.de.us .

Tips also may be submitted anonymously through Delaware Crime Stoppers, which offers rewards, at 800-847-3333 or www.delaware.crimestoppersweb.com.

Valero gas station robbed in Milltown