Caught on Camera: Man Accused of Violent Gas Station Attack

Khabir Karim Smith
Khabir Karim Smith /Submitted Image

EAST LANSDOWNE, PA — A 25-year-old man has been charged following an alleged assault at a gas station that police say was captured on surveillance video.

According to the East Lansdowne Police Department, officers were dispatched at approximately 9:44 a.m. on April 8 to the Exxon gas station at 1001 Baltimore Avenue for a report of an assault in progress.

Police reported that upon arrival, an officer made contact with an adult female who stated she had been assaulted multiple times by her boyfriend, identified as Khabir Karim Smith of Darby.

Authorities said Smith was located at the scene and detained.

READ:  Infant Found in Car During Cable Theft Investigation

According to investigators, a review of surveillance footage allegedly showed the victim standing at a checkout counter when Smith entered the store and began striking her in the head, face, and body. Police reported the victim fled the store, but Smith allegedly followed and continued the assault in the parking lot.

Investigators said the victim was allegedly chased, dragged across the lot, and at one point forced into a vehicle before managing to exit. Police reported she attempted to seek refuge in another vehicle but was allegedly pulled back.

Additional officers from East Lansdowne Police and Lansdowne Police responded and took Smith into custody, according to authorities.

READ:  Family Trio Accused in Violent Robbery at Sparrow Run Park

Police reported Smith was arraigned before a Magisterial District Judge, where bail was set at $50,000 at 10 percent. Authorities said he was unable to post bail and was transported to the George W. Hill Correctional Facility.

A preliminary hearing is scheduled for April 17, according to police.

Smith has been charged with simple assault, kidnapping to inflict injury or terror, unlawful restraint, and recklessly endangering another person, police said.

All suspects, arrestees, and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.