Portland, OR – A liquor store clerk who collapsed from a fatal heart attack was robbed in his final moments, and police are now searching for the man who took advantage of the medical emergency instead of helping.
According to information shared by the Portland Police Bureau, the incident happened around 6:15 p.m. on October 25 at Bins & Barrels, where 53-year-old Jason Hay suddenly went into medical distress. As staff and customers tried to save his life, a man slipped behind the counter and stole cash before running away.
Details of the Emergency and the Theft
Investigators say the suspect made his move while Hay was unresponsive on the floor. The thief reportedly went through Hay’s pockets and took money from the back office before fleeing. Police described the act as a crime of opportunity, noting there is no indication it is part of a larger pattern.
Mike Benner, a public information officer with the bureau, explained that the suspect acted while bystanders were focused on assisting Hay.
Surveillance Footage Raises More Questions
Bins & Barrels manager Michelle Maurer told reporters that security video shows the suspect behaving like a helper before revealing his true intentions…