Port Alberni RCMP is investigating an armed robbery that occurred in the early morning hours of Sunday (May 24, 2015) at the Mac's Convenience Store at the Esso gas station located at 3955 Johnston Rd.
Shortly before 5 a.m. a lone male entered the store, produced a weapon, and demanded money from the clerk. The suspect stole cash, cigarettes, and energy drinks before fleeing the store on foot. A Police Service Dog team attended the scene and obtained a short track, but was unable to locate the suspect. Despite the high level of violence threatened in this incident, no one was injured.
The suspect partially concealed his face during the robbery; however surveillance footage confirmed that he is a Caucasian male, in his 20s or 30s, clean shaven, standing approximately 6 feet tall with a slim build. He was wearing a black knitted cap, black hoodie, black sunglasses, grey sweatpants, and dark boots. A still photograph of the suspect was obtained from the business and police are hoping someone will identify him.
“This is a priority investigation for us,” said Inspector Mac Richards. “While no one was injured in this incident, this level of violence causes us great concern, and we are working diligently to ensure a similar pattern of criminal activity doesn’t develop”, he said.
Anyone with information regarding this robbery is asked to contact the Port Alberni RCMP detachment. Anonymous reports can be made by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.
Edited: Original version had incorrect gas station name.