Authorities Probe Back-To-Back Convenience Store Break-Ins

JOHNSTON COUNTY — Law enforcement agencies are investigating two convenience store break-ins reported about 30 minutes apart early Thursday morning in the Four Oaks and Smithfield areas.

The first incident was reported at approximately 12:31 a.m. at the Safeway convenience store, at 9891 N.C. 210 near Lassiter Road outside of Four Oaks. According to the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office, an unidentified male dressed in all black threw a large cinderblock at the front glass door in an apparent attempt to gain entry. Authorities said the suspect was unsuccessful in gaining entry and fled the scene.

Roughly 30 minutes later, at 1:04 a.m., a similar incident was reported at the T-Mart convenience store at Buffalo Road and Hospital Road in Smithfield. The Smithfield Police Department said a man, also described as wearing all black clothing and rubber gloves, used a rock to shatter the front entrance. The suspect entered the store and removed an undisclosed amount of cash from the register before leaving on foot.

Investigators have not said whether the two incidents are connected. Both cases remain under investigation.