Gas station clerk defies armed robber

PENSACOLA, Fla (WALA) - An armed robber was caught on camera, walked away from a Milton convenience store empty-handed. Santa Rosa Sheriff's Deputies say that's because the clerk didn't give in.

Surveillance video from Sunday shows a quiet night at the Shell Gas Station off Highway 87.

An armed man, with a red bandana covering his face, walked in around 9 p. m. The suspect immediately pointed a handgun at the clerk and demanded money

However, authorities say the clerk refused and pushed the emergency alarm. The wannabe robber ran out of the store empty-handed.

Donitta Fields spent over 10 years in law enforcement. She saw the video and was asked what she thought of the clerk's defiant stand against the suspect.

"She was very calm and collected, so that was good. A lot of people do unnecessary things when they're scared and she didn't act scared a bit," said Fields.

But she says not complying with a robber is always a dangerous situation.

"(It was) very dangerous, very, very dangerous. He had that gun pointed straight at her and could have easily killed her," Fields said.

She says one thing to keep in mind is to always be aware of this type of situation.

"I just hope people are cautious, aware of what's going on and they're being safe," said Fields.

Santa Rosa Sheriff's Deputies say if you have information on this crime, call the Santa Rosa Crime Stoppers at (850) 437-7867.

Information that leads to an arrest may result in a cash reward up to $1,000.