Mini-Van Rams Gas Station In Burglary Attempt

Photo: Jodie MozdzerPolice are looking for the people who rammed a gas station in an apparent attempt to steal a cash machine.

Cops were called at Fuel First at 575 Main St. at about 5 a.m. Tuesday, according to Lt. Andrew Cota.

The front of the building was badly damaged.

A large glass window and portions of the brick wall were sprawled out into the store’s first aisle. 

Photo: Jodie MozdzerOwner Prag Patel said nothing was taken from the store. 

There was so much debris with the bricks and all, so they couldn’t get the ATM out,” Patel said. 

As for other merchandise, which was within arms reach from the exposed wall, Patel said he believes the store’s alarm and morning traffic on the busy street scared the suspects away before they could take anything.

Police said debris left at the scene indicate that a vehicle, possibly a mini-van, smashed into the building.

Officers checking the area found a late model, badly damaged Dodge mini-van on Beaver Street.

Police later discovered the mini-van had been stolen from a local business.

Police said video from the scene shows the van backing into the front of the building and a second person standing outside of the vehicle directing the driver toward the building.

The driver and second suspect have not been identified.

Patel said the incident caused at least $40,000 in damage. The damage was being repaired Tuesday morning, and Patel said the food mart at the gas station would remain open. 

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Ansonia Police Department Detective Division at 203 – 735-1885.

Photo: Jodie MozdzerIn a second incident, believed to be unrelated, police said a burglary occurred at Ingrid’s Mart at 95 Division St.

At 6:18 a.m. Tuesday the owners of Ingrid’s Mart arrived to open up and found that someone had entered the store and stole numerous packs of cigarettes, money and a video system from inside the store.

It is undetermined at this time the amount and value of the items taken. Entry was gained through a side window of the building, police said.

The window was pried open and the suspect(s) climbed through the window and exited through the same spot. The case is under investigation.