7-Eleven Employee Suffers Blunt Force Trauma to Head During Robbery in Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls Police responded to the 7-Eleven on the 400 block of Niagara Street around 7:50pm on September 20th after reports of an assault and robbery. While en route, dispatch advised officers that the suspect was a black male wearing all white clothing last seen walking northbound down 4th Street.

Officers did locate the suspect, now identified as Tywaun Barnes, on the 400 block of 7th Street. Barnes was detained and transported to 7-Eleven in the rear of a patrol vehicle where a 7-Eleven employee positively identified him as the suspect.

Officers then spoke with the employee who stated he was working when he observed a black male enter the store and conceal several items of merchandise in his bag and walk past all points of purchase. The total value of goods totaled $29.

The employee then attempted to stop him at the exit doors, but Barnes became hostile and aggressive. Barnes began to push him and was able to exit the store.

The employee was able to momentarily get ahold of the bag with the stolen merchandise, but Barnes was able to rip it away. Barnes swung the bag at the employee, striking him in the head causing a large laceration on the back of his head.

The employee told police he was in an incredible amount of pain and almost lost consciousness from how hard he was hit by Barnes. He wished to pursue charges against Barnes.

The stolen merchandise was recovered and returned to 7-Eleven.

Officers attempted to interview Barnes but he would not answer questions and continued to act belligerent towards officers. He was transported to police headquarters for booking and processing.

Barnes was charged with assault 2nd (intent to cause physical injury with weapon/instrument), petit larceny, and robbery 2nd (causes physical injury).

No further information is available at this time.

7-Eleven Employee Suffers Blunt Force Trauma to Head During Robbery in Niagara Falls