Crowbar-waving thief threatens NJ shopkeeper over $7

HAINESPORT — Police are looking for a man who held up an auto shop before dawn Wednesday, threatening a woman employee with a crowbar before walking out with a measly seven bucks.

State Police said the man brazenly broke into the Bear Tire and Auto on Route 38 by smashing through the shop's glass door.

The lights were on in the shop and the woman employee, working as an overnight dispatcher, was seated behind the counter.

Images from the shop's security camera show the man raising the crowbar over his head as the employee hands over the nearly empty cash register drawer and her purse.

The suspect then fled the store and ran across Route 38, State Police said.

The victim described the suspect’s voice as gravelly. He also has a mark or scar on the side of his face and his front teeth appear to be missing.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Bordentown Station Det. Craig McCoy at 609-298-1171. Anonymous tips are welcome.

Sergio Bichao is deputy digital editor at New Jersey 101.5. Send him news tips: Call 609-438-1015 or email sergio.bichao@townsquaremedia.com.