WARNING: This video contains disturbing content.
Customers and co-workers are coming forward to offer their support for a gas station attendant who was seriously injured on Saturday afternoon.
The victim was run over by a driver in a truck, after trying to stop the individual from allegedly stealing gas at the Superstore Gas Bar on Baseline Road in Strathcona County.
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“I was in shock,” said Superstore Gas Bar manager Chu Thai on Monday.
“The guy got ran over, and when I found out it was [the attendant], I was hoping he was okay.”
RCMP said Monday they have seized the vehicle believed to be involved in Saturday’s incident.
“Witnesses report that a male suspect was leaving without paying for his gas when a male employee attempted to intervene and stop the suspect from leaving, resulting in the employee being run over,” Const. Chantelle Kelly said.
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Customers who knew the man who was hit also provided their support.
“He’s just a great guy, super nice always friendly,” said Ryan Lloyd, who’s been coming to the gas station for two years.
Both Lloyd, as well as Thai have come forward to offer support for the victim in any way possible.
The victim remains in hospital in stable condition.
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“This is a tragic incident and our thoughts are with the worker and his loved ones,” Alberta Labour Minister Christina Gray said in a statement Monday.
“Every Albertan has a right to come home safely at the end of their shift and OHS officers are currently investigating this incident to determine what happened.
“We know that gas and convenience store workers are particularly vulnerable to violent crime and theft. We are working with stakeholders in this sector, including industry groups, labour organizations and others to find ways to improve worker safety. In 2016, OHS officers conducted focused inspections in gas stations and convenience stores, concentrating on specific OHS and employment standards issues in the industry. We will continue to conduct focused inspections that include gas stations and convenience stores.”
The suspect vehicle was not reported stolen. RCMP are also looking for any further information on who may have driven the vehicle.
“It’s part of our investigation to interview various people, but we’re still looking again for some more information from the public as to identify who was driving at the time,” Kelly said.
Witnesses said the driver looked to be in his 30s.
Anyone with information is being asked to contact Strathcona County RCMP 780-467-7741 or Crime Stoppers.
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