A store owner received minor injuries following a violent robbery in Port Hope on Thursday, October 29, 2020.
At approximately 7:30 p.m. a man with a cane walked into BBC Discount Convenience Store located at 99 Walton Street in downtown Port Hope.
Today’s Northumberland spoke to the store owner while reviewing security video.
After a brief time in the store the man pulled the fire alarm to the store.
Shortly after that he approached the counter, asked for dark glasses, then put his cane over the counter and demanded cash.
“At first I thought he was just joking,” said the store owner.
The suspect then started smashing items around the counter and knocked over displays.
The suspect then came back to where the store owner and his wife were standing behind the counter and started jabbing his cane at the owner.
The owner eventually pushed to suspect to the floor, but the suspect tried numerous times to kick the owner and said he was a boxer.
“I told him to stay there and calm down,” but the suspect kept demanding cash.
The suspect told the owner he needed an ambulance, then got up and again scuffled with the owner.
Another person entered the store and as the owner’s wife was phoning 9-1-1 the suspect walked out of the store and tried to leave the area.
The suspect left his mask behind on the floor.
The owner once again followed the suspect, then suddenly the suspect turned and punched the owner in the eye.
Because the fire alarm was pulled, Port Hope Fire Department along with Port Hope Police arrived shortly after and the suspect was taken into custody a short time later.
The store owner’s wife was shaken up by the incident and the store owner received bruising and a cut to his eye.
In 16-years of owning the store, the owner said it was the first time he’s ever been robbed.
A 58-year-old man is facing a charge of robbery and breach of recognizance.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
