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Police: Masked Gunmen Target Salvation Army Store

ST. CLAIR SHORES (WWJ/AP) - Police are searching for two masked gunmen who broke into a Salvation Army thrift store in metro Detroit, hit a worker and left without taking anything.

The robbery attempt took place around 11 a.m. Sunday at the Salvation Army store on Harper Avenue, near 13 Mile Road in St. Clair Shores. The store was closed at the time, but workers were sorting clothing and other items to get ready for sale to the public.

Police say one man kept some workers in a loading dock area as the other searched part of the store. Both men were armed, although no shots were fired.

Detective Jay Cohoe said one of the gunmen slapped a 31-year-old disabled woman during the incident. She was taken to a local clinic for treatment. No one else was injured.

Officers responded to the store and searched the surrounding neighborhood, but found no sign of the suspects. Police believe a get-away car was waiting for them.

Cohoe said the suspects are cowards because they targeted a thrift store that helps people in need.

"It's like targeting a church," Cohoe told the Macomb Daily. "Everyone benefits from the Salvation Army. You just don't do that."

Both suspects are described as black males about 5'10" tall; one of the gunmen has a medium build. Police are seeking tips from the public.

Anyone who might have information on the incident or the suspects is urged to contact police at 586-445-5300 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAK-UP.

TM and © Copyright 2014 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2014 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.

 

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