AHOSKIE – Two men, each armed with a shotgun, are sought in connection with a robbery in the St. John community late last week.

Hertford County Sheriff Juan Vaughan reported the robbery occurred June 13 at the Corner Shop, located off NC 561, at approximately 9:35 p.m.

Vaughan said it was at that time where two female clerks had closed the business for the night and were outside the store’s main entrance when approached by two black males.

“Both suspects had their faces covered and pointed their shotguns at the women, forcing them to reopen the store and enter,” Vaughan said. “When they asked for the money, one of the clerks said it was locked in the store’s safe and neither clerk had the code to open it.”

Upon learning that accessing the safe was not possible, Vaughan said one of the suspects jumped on top of the checkout counter and then dropped to his feet behind the counter at which time he stole four packs of Newport brand cigarettes.

The suspects then exited the store, fleeing on foot. Vaughan said neither clerk noticed a vehicle leaving the area shortly after the robbery.

“We brought in our dog and he tracked a trail to an area near the store where we think a get-away vehicle was parked,” Vaughan said. “While we continue our investigation into this case, the good news is that neither of the clerks was injured in the robbery.”

Vaughan said other than the information gained from the clerks concerning the race of the suspects, they were both wearing dark clothing; one was approximately 6 feet tall while the other was a bit shorter.

The case is being investigated by HCSO Captain Will Liverman and Sgt. Leon Eason. Anyone with information possibly linked to this crime is encouraged to call 252-358-7800.