In a harrowing incident at the Royalty Smoke and Gas Station in Baker County, a gas station clerk is recovering after being shot during a robbery attempt. On Tuesday night, 31-year-old Caleb Matthews was working at the register when two individuals entered the store, with one attempting to steal alcohol. Matthews intervened, but the situation escalated when the thief produced a firearm and shot him. The suspect fled the scene immediately after the shooting.
Authorities tracked the suspects’ vehicle, leading to a high-speed chase that concluded when the car crashed near US Highway 90 and Cow Pen Road. Inside the vehicle were 22-year-old Kevin Manley Jr. and a 14-year-old boy, who claimed to be Manley’s cousin. The incident has left local residents expressing concern over the increasing violence, with regular patrons of the gas station speaking highly of Matthews, emphasizing the unprovoked nature of the attack.
This marks the second shooting in Baker County within a week involving young suspects under the age of 30. Local community members are growing increasingly alarmed, calling for action to address the surge in violence. Despite the recent incidents, the Baker County Sheriff’s office maintains that the overall crime rate remains low, suggesting these events do not reflect the usual quality of life in the area.
The Community Impact
The recent shooting at the gas station has sent ripples through Baker County, highlighting concerns over safety and security in the community. As residents grapple with the shock of two shootings in quick succession, there is a growing call for measures to curb such violence. The incidents have prompted discussions on the need for improved public safety and potentially increased resources for law enforcement to prevent future occurrences.
From a broader perspective, these events underscore the challenges of maintaining community trust and a sense of safety in small towns. As Baker County residents process the recent events, the focus shifts to fostering a secure environment that reassures both locals and visitors. The community’s response and solidarity, exemplified by the support for Matthews through fundraising efforts, highlight the resilience and unity of the area in the face of adversity.