Service station worker shot from behind in terrifying Springvale Rd armed robbery

A CONVENIENCE store worker was shot from behind while he desperately tried to run from a masked gunman during an attempted armed robbery at a 7-Eleven in Melbourne’s southeast

A CONVENIENCE store worker was shot from behind while he desperately tried to run from a gunman during an attempted armed robbery at a 7-Eleven in Melbourne’s southeast.

Detectives from the Armed Crime Squad say the violent criminal opened fire on the 40-year-old attendant during the holdup shortly before 4.30am in Springvale South.

The victim was last night in a stable condition in The Alfred hospital, receiving treatment after being shot in the elbow.

The man, described as 180cm tall and wearing a grey hoodie and bandana over his face, is also wanted over a robbery at a service station less than 2km away, just 15 minutes earlier.

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Police at the 7-Eleven service station in Springvale South, where a worker was shot this morning. Picture: David Crosling

Detectives believe the incident is linked to an earlier armed robbery at a nearby service station. Picture: David Crosling

In that incident the masked man brandished a firearm and demanded cash at a BP service station on Heatherton Rd, near Hosken St.

During that attempted robbery the man was also wearing a grey hooded jumper, dark trackpants and a bandana across his face.

Police believe the man entered the 7-Eleven on Springvale Rd when the attendant unlocked the front door to let another customer in.

An investigator photographs the crime scene. Picture: David Crosling

The would-be robber is believed to have shot the attendant as he ran towards the back of the shop. Inspector Mick Daly said the crime was “extremely serious” and of concern to the public.

“It’s a high-level escalation by the offender to actually discharge the firearm — that concerns us,” Insp Daly said.

Detectives and forensic police spent yesterday morning gathering evidence from both scenes, including CCTV footage from nearby shops.

The man is believed to have used a car to travel between service stations but police have not released a description of the vehicle.

Police tape off the service station. Picture: David Crosling

In both incidents, he threatened staff with a handgun and demanded cash.

He fled both scenes empty-handed and on foot.

Police would not say whether they believe the man was working alone or had help from others.

Investigators are also urging anyone who saw the man to come forward.

“We have a number of witnesses to speak to … (and) get a better description of the offender,” Insp Daly said.

“His face was covered and that obviously creates some challenges for us.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at crimestoppersvic.com.au

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