MANCHESTER, Conn. — A Manchester man is recovering after police said he was shot during an armed robbery at Mobil gas station early Thursday morning.
Just after 2 a.m., Manchester officers were called to the Mobil station at 427 Hartford Road on the report of a shooting.
When they arrived, officers found a 54-year-old Manchester man suffering from a gunshot wound to the hip.
Manchester residents reacted with fear after learning about the incident.
"I'm getting goosebumps right now," said Kataphone Keovilay of Manchester.
"Like shocked, but at the same time, not surprised," said Cailan Frett of Manchester.
Police said the victim reported seeing a dark-colored sedan pull into the gas station's parking lot as he was filling his own car with gas. A suspect emerged from the sedan with a gun and ran up to the man demanding money, police said.
The man reportedly tried to run away and was shot as he ran. Police said the man reported seeing the suspect drive off in the sedan in an unknown direction.
Residents told FOX61 they are aware gas stations have become places of target for thieves.
"Before I park, I look around. I look around and go in and come out and pump my gas and that's it," added Keovilay.
"I try to stay extra vigilant and if I see anything, I'll just dial 911," added Frett.
The Manchester man was taken to Hartford Hospital where he was listed in stable condition.
No other injuries were reported.
Manchester Mayor Jay Moran released this statement in response to the incident, saying in part:
As Mayor, my number one priority is keeping the residents of Manchester safe, protected, and healthy. The attempted robbery and shooting that took place this morning on Hartford Road is extremely disturbing and acts of violent crime have no place in our community.
Manchester has dedicated resources over the past year to respond to the increase in violent motor vehicle thefts and gun related violence that has impacted the entire state and Greater Hartford Region and we will continue to work both locally and regionally on efforts to address this serious issue.
I send my thoughts, prayers, and wishes for a speedy recovery to the victim and thank our police officers and other first responders involved in the response effort.
Detectives are investigating, police said, and anyone with information can contact the Manchester Police Department at 860-645-5500.
Jennifer Glatz is a digital content producer at FOX61 News. She can be reached at jglatz@fox61.com.
Carmen Chau is an anchor and reporter at FOX61 News. She can be reached at cchau@fox61.com. Follow her on Facebook and Twitter.
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