GASTONIA, NC – An ordinary day at Jacob’s Food Mart turned into a life-or-death situation when a convenience store clerk faced an armed assailant. The dramatic encounter, captured on surveillance footage, shows the clerk’s quick reflexes saving his life.
The incident unfolded when the suspect, wearing a tan hoodie and sunglasses, entered the store. As the clerk, Scotty Floyd, glanced down at the register, the suspect drew a gun and fired three shots. Remarkably, Floyd’s quick action to shield himself with his arm likely prevented a fatal outcome.
The attack left Floyd with two broken bones in his arm, but he survived. “I thank God,” Floyd said, reflecting on the harrowing experience. He had opened the door for the man, unaware he was armed, but grew suspicious due to the man’s attire.
Floyd, who has worked at the store for 15 years, noted the suspect did not demand money but instead asked for CBD cigarette products. When he saw the glint of the gun, Floyd instinctively knew what was happening. The bullet lodged in his forearm but did not penetrate further.
After the shots, Floyd ducked behind the counter, fearing the suspect would continue shooting. However, the gun malfunctioned, and the attacker fled the scene. Authorities later identified the suspect as Christian Campbell, who is now facing charges of assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill.
Campbell allegedly continued his violent spree in Forest City, about 40 miles away, where he is accused of nearly killing another man. Law enforcement officials are working to ensure he faces justice for both incidents.
Floyd, a seasoned cashier with 21 years of experience, expressed his determination to return to work, though he plans to be armed in the future. He emphasized the need for justice, saying Campbell showed no regard for his life.