Police have surveillance video from Hildebran robberies

HILDEBRAN, N.C. — Police have surveillance video from both stores where robbery and attempted robbery happened at six miles apart along interstate 40, and after comparing those police believe only one person is responsible.

The first robbery happened at a Fast Track convenience store in Hildebran.

Sheriff 's deputies in Burke County said the robber gave the clerk a note saying he had a gun and told her he wanted the money from the register.

"I was behind the counter last night stocking cigarettes," said Anna Choudhary, who was working Tuesday night when the robbery happened.

She said the robber appeared to have a gun in his jacket as he leaned across the counter and took the money from the register.

As he left, he raised what appeared to be the gun one last time, pointing it in her direction.

"Be careful. The holidays are coming up and people are starting to get crazy. With everything, it is watch your backs," said Choudhary.

An hour and a half later a second store near Catawba Valley Community College in Hickory was robbed by a man who also leaned across the counter, but workers said the female clerk fought back, striking the robber twice in the face.

He left without any money.

Debbie Shook has worked in convenience stores for more than three decades.

Moved up-->She is glad no one was hurt and has a message for the person responsible.

"Please stop. If you need $20, come ask me if I would be willing to give it to them. I would give it to them," said Shook.

Sheriff's deputies in Burke County said they are working closely with investigators in Hickory hoping to identify a suspect.

Police said they are trying to be much more visible during the holidays.

WSOC