Local

Police search for woman armed with knife after 2 businesses robbed

IREDELL COUNTY, N.C. — Deputies are trying to track down a woman who robbed two Statesville businesses with a large knife.

The crimes happened on Monday, just hours apart.

Investigators are concerned she could be dangerous.

Eyewitness News talked to customers worried where she could hit next.

Sheriff's deputies said the woman was in and out of the businesses in just a couple of minutes.

Both times she caught the cashiers off guard, going to the counter to buy something but then pulling out an eight-inch knife.

The robbery unfolded inside the Dollar General east of Statesville.

The woman pulled a large knife from her sweatshirt, jabbed at the cashier and stole money out of the cash register.

Those shopping at the business Tuesday were not surprised to learn a woman was responsible or her choice of weapon.

"Today nothing surprises me. I'm not surprised by anything today. People are going crazy. They don't have enough money and they are doing anything they can," said customer Amy McCoy.

In surveillance video it was difficult to see the woman's face, but the sweatshirt had the letters TMS on it.

Investigators believe it may stand for Troutman Middle School and told Eyewitness News the color of the sweatshirt is the same as the school colors.

Channel 9 has learned they went to the school on Tuesday after a Food Lion and Dollar General were hit just a few hours apart Monday in hopes of identifying the woman responsible.

On Tuesday afternoon, they released two pictures of the woman inside the Food Lion.

Kay Stevens works at a restaurant nearby and isn't taking any chances on Tuesday night.

"I know we have been very cautious keeping the doors locked and watching our surroundings. It is getting close to the holidays and you got to be careful," she said.

Investigators told Eyewitness News that they are working with other law enforcement agencies to find out if they've had similar cases or can identify the woman.

They're hoping someone in the public will recognize the woman and give them a call.