Store clerk pistol-whipped, kidnapped during violent robbery, police say

HICKORY, N.C. — Police said a store clerk was pistol-whipped and kidnapped during a violent armed robbery in Hickory Thursday night.

The crime happened at the Fast and Fresh, just east of the downtown area.

Surveillance video showed the robber struck the clerk in the head with his gun before stealing cash and forcing the clerk to drive him away from the store.

Investigators told Channel 9 that the clerk had only minor injuries and was forced out of the car by the robber.

"Can't do nothing. What can we do? You have to run the business too. We cannot shutdown the business,” Fast and Fresh owner Sendeep Thakaer said.

Thakaer said he takes precautions, including shutting down the business early to avoid being targeted.

Police told Channel 9 that they believe this case may be connected to a robbery that happened last fall at the Lucky Stop about a mile away.

The Lucky Stop’s owner was also kidnapped after being robbed at gunpoint.

A neighbor told reporter Dave Faherty that he's ready if the robber returns.

"I would have assumed the position right over here and told this guy to drop his gun," George Walker said.

Because the robber wore a hood and ski mask, police only have a vague description.

They said they will be stepping up patrols around stores at closing time.

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