GASTON COUNTY, N.C. – A terrifying ordeal unfolded in Gastonia on Wednesday night as a man was shot in the back during a robbery and kidnapping at his jewelry store, according to officials.
The incidents took place at two different locations, with the robbery occurring at TIF Designs on South New Hope Road and the kidnapping at the man’s home on Amberley Crossing Drive, approximately 15 minutes apart.
Belmont Police Department reported that the man informed officers of being shot and robbed by four masked men at the store before being kidnapped and taken back to his home. After the robbery, the suspects left the area, leaving behind crucial evidence for investigators.
In addition to the harrowing experience, the man’s Chevrolet Tahoe was stolen but later recovered at his home. He is currently receiving treatment for a gunshot wound in his back at Caromont Regional Medical Center.
This disturbing incident comes on the heels of another shooting in the same neighborhood just days prior, where nearly 60 shots were fired into a home on Nixon Road, intersecting with Amberley Crossing Drive. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in that incident.
Authorities are urging anyone with information concerning either case to come forward and contact Belmont Police at 704-825-3792. These events have left the community on edge, with residents expressing concerns for their safety and calling for swift action to address the violence in the area.