Blackstone Police Investigating Overnight Armed Robbery

For Immediate Release
Monday, Nov. 24, 2014

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Blackstone Police Investigating Armed Robbery of Smoke Shop

Surveillance Photos Included

BLACKSTONE — Police Chief Ross Atstupenas reports that the Blackstone Police Department is actively investigating the armed robbery of a store in town Sunday night.

Blackstone Police responded Sunday at about 8 p.m. to the Blackstone Smoke Shop on Main Street for a reported robbery at knifepoint. Upon arrival, officers spoke with the owner of the shop, as well as his wife and daughter who were all present during the robbery.

The shopkeeper told police that a man came into the store and demanded money from the register. The suspect is described as a white male, about 5’6″ tall, wearing a blue jacket with tan shoulder sections, black pants, black shoes with white soles, and a hooded sweatshirt. The suspect fled with an undermined amount of cash. The suspect brandished a silver-colored knife with a 4-inch blade.

“We need the public’s help identifying and apprehending this dangerous individual,” Chief Atstupenas said. “Additionally, with the holiday this week, we want to alert owner business owners and shopkeepers to be on alert for this person and anyone else who may be out to rob and endanger law abiding citizens.”

The Blackstone Fire Department responded to treat the store owner’s wife, who fainted during the robbery. She was revived and declined further medical attention.

Blackstone Police are investigating the robbery. The State Police Crime Scene Services Unit and Woonsocket R.I. Police Department assisted at the scene.

If anyone has any information about Sunday’s robbery or recognizes the suspect seen in the surveillance photos, they are urged to call Blackstone Police at 508-883-1212. All calls may be kept anonymous.

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