Two Suspects Charged In Beating Of Hoover Store Clerk

HOOVER, AL - Two men have been arrested after police say they beat a convenience store clerk in Hoover over a dispute about the men tracking mud into the store with their shoes. The suspects have been identified as identified the suspects as Joseph Alexander Weaver, 37, of Semmes, and Thomas Alton Gavin, 31, of Island.

A report by Alabama Media Group said Hoover police responded about 12:15 p.m. Monday to a report of an assault at Patton Chapel One Stop on Patton Chapel Road. Witnesses reported they saw two men punching the clerk in the parking lot before the suspects fled the scene in a white Ford F-250. (For more updates on this story and free news alerts for your neighborhood, sign up for your local Patch morning newsletter.)

The victim, who is being treated for his injuries at Grandview Medical Center, told officers one of the suspects got angry after the clerk confronted him about tracking mud in his store. An argument between the victim and that suspect ensued and the victim stated he was calling the police. As that suspect was leaving the store, the clerk followed him into the parking lot. The second suspect exited the store and began punching the victim from behind. The other suspect joined in the attack and knocked the victim to the ground. He then took the victim's phone before leaving in the pickup.

Police were able to identify the suspects because one of them was wearing a shirt with his employer's name on it, which was seen via surveillance video.

Weaver is charged with second-degree assault and third-degree robbery. His bond is set at $5,000, and Gavin is charged with second-degree assault. His bond is set at $2,500. Both men surrendered to the Jefferson County Jail Wednesday night.

Photos via Hoover PD