Dec. 11. Police are looking for a man in a black jacket and knit cap who punched and pointed a handgun at a person who was trying to pump gas at the Citgo at 20671 Catawba Ave.

It all happened Thursday after dark. Police say a black male approached the victim from behind and demanded his money. The suspect pointed a small handgun then punched the victim on both sides of his face and the stomach.

After the victim screamed for help, a person nearby fired one shot at the suspect, who then fled the area on foot. It is unknown if the suspect was struck.

The suspect is described as a black male in his mid- to late-20’s approximately 5’9″ to 6 feet tall. He was wearing a white shirt, dark shorts, black shoes and a black backpack.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Cornelius Police Department at 704-892-7773 or North Mecklenburg Crimestoppers at 704-896-7867. You can remain anonymous.