Armed robbers hit Crawley shop worker with handgun (From The Argus)

Armed robbers hit Crawley shop worker with handgun

2:40pm Tuesday 30th October 2012 in News By Bill Gardner

A terrified shop worker was smashed in the face with a handgun during a brutal armed robbery.

Two masked men dressed in dark clothing entered Corals betting shop in Ifield Parade, Crawley, at around 8.30pm on October 29 and threatened members of staff.

One worker was struck in the face with what appeared to be the butt of a handgun and was later taken to hospital where he was treated for a fractured cheekbone.

Another staff member was verbally threatened and made to hand over cash, before the suspects made off in a dark blue Cherokee Jeep driven by a third person/

Sian Harding from West Sussex CID said: "This was a frightening attack on the staff and was witnessed by a customer, who was fortunately not threatened or injured.

"We are continuing with forensic examinations of the scene, talking to potential witnesses and viewing CCTV. If you were in the area and witnessed the robbery or saw the blue Jeep before or after the incident then please get in touch as a matter of urgency.

"You can call 101 quoting serial 1533 of 29/10 or leave an anonymous message with the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."