SELMA – Authorities are investigating the theft of merchandise from a fire-damaged Johnston County convenience store.
Popeye’s Gas and Grill at 6425 NC Highway 96 North of Selma was damaged in a fire reportedly around 10:30am Sunday. An employee was cleaning the grill when the fire broke out. The worker was seriously injured and rushed to the NC Jaycee Burn Center in Chapel Hill.
Monday night or Tuesday, someone shattered the glass in the locked front door to gain entry. The owner reported approximately $200 in vape products and $20 in soft drinks stolen. The owner said the items had likely been damaged by the fire but were still stolen by the thief.
The Johnston County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the break-in.
The Johnston County Fire Marshal’s Office said the fire was accidental.
