Sheriff’s Office Investigating Two Attempted Dollar General Burglaries

JOHNSTON COUNTY — The Johnston County Sheriff’s Office is investigating attempted break-ins at two Dollar General stores in Johnston County after suspects tried but failed to gain entry during separate overnight incidents.

The first attempt was reported around 1:46 a.m. on June 14 at the Dollar General on N.C. Highway 50 South in the Meadow community near Benson.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded after a burglar alarm was activated at the store located at 7319 N.C. 50 South.

Investigators said two suspects, dressed in black clothing and wearing black masks and gloves, allegedly ripped an electrical meter box from the side of the building in what appeared to be an effort to disable power to the business.

Authorities said the suspects then attempted to force their way through both a side door and rear door but were unable to get inside. The pair fled the scene before deputies arrived.

Damage was estimated at approximately $10,000, including about $5,000 in damage to the electrical meter box and another $5,000 in damage to the doors.

A second attempted break-in was reported shortly after 1:29 a.m. today (Tuesday) at the Dollar General located at 4207 N.C. Highway 231 in the Corinth Holders community near Zebulon.

Deputies responding to a burglar alarm discovered someone had attempted to pry open a door to gain entry. Investigators said the effort was unsuccessful, and no entry was made into the business.

Damage to the door was estimated at $1,500.

Authorities have not said whether the two incidents are connected.

Anyone with information about either attempted break-in is encouraged to contact the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office.