GILLINGHAM – A routine Monday night spiraled into a scene of violent chaos at a Pier Road, Gillingham shop after a suspected thief launched a destructive assault on staff and property.
Kent Police moved swiftly to track down the perpetrator following the report that an attempted alcohol theft had escalated into a barrage of flying projectiles and shattered glass.
The incident began at approximately 9:30 PM on May 4, 2026, when a man allegedly entered the premises with the intent to steal alcohol. Witnesses describe a volatile scene where multiple bottles were smashed and coffee jars were used as weapons against the store employees. During the struggle, the suspect reportedly breached the counter area to seize cigarettes before fleeing the scene on foot.
Responding officers initiated an immediate sweep of the surrounding area. Their search concluded around an hour later when a suspect was intercepted and detained near the Medway Tunnel.
Authorities have identified the man as 36-year-old from Basildon. Following a police investigation, he was formally charged with burglary, common assault, and criminal damage. He has been released on bail and is scheduled to face the allegations at Medway Magistrates’ Court on August 18.