Wawa will reportedly start closing nine locations overnight in Northeast Philadelphia and Bucks County after two armed robberies. CBS News reports the overnight closures come just days after Wawa said two Center City outlets would permanently close due to safety concerns. The thefts occurred in Bucks County, and the suspects are still at large.
After an armed robber held up the two stores on consecutive nights, the company announced it would close nine locations from Northeast Philadelphia to Bensalem and Churchville from 12 a.m. to 5 a.m. Wawa officials said the company will “Temporarily close or limit hours at some stores due to external operational challenges or recommendations by local authorities for the safety and security of our associates.”
The first location was held up at around 2 a.m. last Monday, inside the Wawa at Street Road and Bustleton Avenue in Lower Southampton. The next night, authorities believe the same person committed the same offense at the Wawa inside the Holland Shopping Center at about 3 a.m. Police Chief John “Ted” Krimmel Jr. noted, “To have them so close together in a timespan that’s unusual.”
The overnight closures are reportedly temporary and for staff to use for stocking, inventory, and cleaning. However, credit and debit gas purchases will still be available during overnight hours. Wawa employee Kim Dorman explained, “It’s safer for them in today’s world, I think, it’s a good idea,” adding, “Safety comes first before your coffee.”
