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Deputies investigate multiple local gun shop robberies

LANCASTER COUNTY, S.C. — The Lancaster County Sheriff's Office is investigating after a gun shop was robbed Tuesday afternoon.

Deputies said two masked men, one armed with a gun, entered Van Wyck Sporting Goods.

Officials said an unknown number of guns were taken from the store.

Deputies said the store was open at the time and no injuries were reported.

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are involved in the investigation.

Deputies said they have strong leads but haven’t released any suspect information.

Officials are also investigating after the Vinesett Guns and Gold on Highway 521 in Indian Land was broken into overnight.

"I was hoping it would be a false alarm, but it wasn't,” said store owner Terry Vinesett. “Window broken out, glass case all broken, can't really determine what all is missing."

The Vinesetts see their shop as more than a business, and had a message for whoever stole from them, and did all the damage.

"It's a ministry to people that are in need and in crisis,” said store owner Kim Vinesett. “Obviously, the people that did this are more in need and more in crisis than the rest of us. So, my prayer for them would be that they would find the Lord."

The owners said the thieves smashed the shop's front window, took a gun and smashed a jewelry case.

Police also said that Hyatt's Gunshop on Wilkinson Boulevard in Charlotte was broken into, but nothing was stolen.

It's unclear if the three break-ins are connected.

This is an ongoing investigation. Check back with wsoctv.com for more information. 

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