FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 20, 2000

CARY, NC – The Town of Cary’s Police Department is asking for your help in apprehending a man who used a human shield in last night’s armed robbery of the Phillips 66 station on the corner of North Harrison Avenue and Northwest Maynard Road in Cary.

Around 10:00 PM, a pizza delivery driver was pumping gas at the self-service station when he was approached by the suspect who put a handgun to his head and ordered him inside the business. Once inside, the suspect continued to hold the gun to the pizza man’s head and ordered the store clerk to open the door to the store’s office area, which is secured by bullet proof glass. The clerk complied and, as ordered, gave the suspect all the money from the register. The suspect then removed more money from the store safe. Upon leaving the store, the suspect kicked the pizza man in the face but did not seriously injure him; he required no medical attention. The suspect was last seen running toward the woods on the north side of the business.

Cary Police are looking for a black male in his late 20s or early 30s, 5’ 9" to 5’ 11" tall, weighing approximately 140lbs., with medium length black hair, medium brown completion, wearing a black hat, gray T-shirt and faded blue jeans.

"This is a particularly bold robbery for Cary," said Lt. Barry Nickalson. In addition to the human shield, Nickalson pointed out that it wasn’t very late in the evening and the store is located in a high traffic area that is reasonably well lit. "We’re asking citizens to be very aware of their environment and to be cautious if strangers approach," said Nickalson. "If that voice inside you says something doesn’t feel right here, listen to it and leave."

Cary Crime Stoppers will pay up to $2,500 for information leading to the identification and apprehension of the individual responsible for this crime. Anyone with information may contact Crime Stoppers at 226-CRIM(E), pressing option 3 for Cary or contact Investigator Jeff Ward, Criminal Investigations, at 319-4524. All calls will be kept CONFIDENTIAL at caller's request.

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