It was anything but business as usual this weekend at several local stores, where beer thefts, crossbows, fugitives, and fistfights kept police on their toes.
Friday Night Beer Heist:
Just after 9:30 p.m. Friday, officers were called to the Oasis Convenient Mart after a group of teenagers allegedly stole a beer right out of a customer’s hands and made a run for it—straight toward Wayne Hills. The man told officers he was okay and didn’t want to press charges, possibly deciding the cold beer wasn’t worth the hot hassle.
Crossbow Confusion at Speedway:
An hour later, things got medieval at the Speedway on Gallia Street, when panicked callers reported a man walking around inside the store with a crossbow. Police rushed to the scene, ready for action—only to discover the man had just bought the crossbow and stopped in for a snack on his way home. No threats were made, and officers confirmed the weapon was in safe condition. Talk about a dramatic shopping trip!
Saturday Warrant Woes:
The drama continued Saturday at the Fast Stop Market on 8th Street, where officers spotted Buddy Bennett, a man wanted on a failure to appear warrant, just hanging out in the parking lot. He was promptly taken into custody—proof that sometimes, convenience stores are just too convenient for law enforcement.
Sunday Showdown:
Fast Stop made headlines again on Sunday when a woman reported being attacked by three people in the parking lot, claiming they “cracked her head open.” Officers searched the area but couldn’t locate the alleged attackers. The woman was transported to the hospital by medics for treatment.
Moral of the mayhem?
Whether it’s beer bandits, crossbow enthusiasts, or brawls by the gas pumps, Portsmouth’s corner stores are serving up more than snacks and soda. Stay alert, and maybe do your shopping in the daytime.
