Great Valley, New York – A Salamanca man is facing multiple criminal charges following a daylight robbery at a gas station in Cattaraugus County, an incident that prompted a coordinated law enforcement response involving several agencies.
The robbery occurred on Sunday afternoon at a convenience store east of Salamanca, leading to the arrest of 34-year-old Patrick Askey Jr. Authorities say the investigation progressed quickly, resulting in formal charges and his placement in county custody.
Incident Overview
According to law enforcement officials, the robbery took place at Hoag’s Gas Station and Smoke Shop in the hamlet of Kill Buck, located east of Salamanca. The incident was reported at approximately 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, a time when businesses typically experience steady customer traffic.
The suspect allegedly entered the store and committed a robbery that escalated beyond a simple theft, prompting charges that include intimidation-related offenses. While officials have not released details about whether a weapon was involved, the charges suggest behavior that caused fear or threatened harm during the incident.
Timeline of Events
- Sunday, 12:30 p.m. – Robbery reported at Hoag’s Gas Station and Smoke Shop in Kill Buck
- Law enforcement launches an immediate investigation
- Suspect identified as Patrick Askey Jr., age 34, of Salamanca
- Arrest made following investigative efforts
- Suspect arraigned in Town of Ellicottville Court
- Suspect remanded to Cattaraugus County Jail in lieu of bail
The swift timeline highlights coordinated efforts by local and state authorities to resolve the case efficiently.
Details from Law Enforcement
The Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the investigation was supported by both the New York State Police and the Salamanca Police Department. Officials emphasized that inter-agency cooperation played a key role in locating and arresting the suspect without further incident.
Authorities have not indicated whether the suspect resisted arrest or whether any injuries were reported at the scene. No information has been released regarding the amount of money or property allegedly taken during the robbery.
Charges Filed
Following his arrest, Patrick Askey Jr. was formally charged with:
- Robbery
- Petit Larceny
- Menacing
These charges indicate that the incident involved not only theft but also behavior intended to threaten or place another individual in fear. Under New York law, menacing charges typically involve actions that make a victim reasonably fear physical injury.
Court Proceedings and Custody Status
Askey was arraigned in Town of Ellicottville Court and is currently being held at the Cattaraugus County Jail in lieu of bail. Court records show that he is scheduled to appear next in Salamanca City Court on March 11.
Public records also indicate that Askey has been assigned a public defender, ensuring legal representation as the case proceeds through the court system.
At this time, officials have not commented on whether additional charges could be filed or whether the case may be presented to a grand jury.
Additional Context: Daytime Robberies and Community Impact
Daytime robberies at gas stations and convenience stores remain a concern for rural and semi-rural communities across New York State. These locations are often targeted due to their accessibility, extended operating hours, and limited staffing during certain shifts.
Incidents like this can have a lasting impact on employees and customers, particularly when intimidation or threats are involved. Even when no physical injuries occur, such events can contribute to heightened anxiety and concerns about public safety in smaller communities.
Law enforcement agencies often encourage businesses to maintain visible security measures, such as surveillance cameras, panic buttons, and employee training focused on de-escalation and reporting procedures.
Public Safety and Crime Awareness
Authorities remind residents and business owners to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity promptly. Community cooperation is frequently cited as a critical factor in solving crimes quickly and preventing repeat offenses.
For customers, officials advise being aware of surroundings, especially during peak business hours, and notifying staff or law enforcement if something appears out of place.
Conclusion
The arrest of Patrick Askey Jr. marks a significant development in the investigation into the Kill Buck gas station robbery, with multiple charges now filed and court proceedings underway. As the case moves forward, additional details may emerge regarding the circumstances of the incident and any potential consequences under New York law.
Law enforcement officials continue to emphasize the importance of inter-agency collaboration and community awareness in maintaining public safety across Cattaraugus County.
Share your experiences in the comments below.
