By:Roger Alvarado
Two 18-year-old Hillsborough men have been charged with second-degree robbery and simple assault after allegedly robbing the Getty Gas Station on Route 206 and assaulting one of its attendants on Nov. 11, police said.
Dante D. Garrett and Charles R. Smith Jr., both of Capricorn Drive, were taken into custody at their homes about 45 minutes after police received a 911 call from a motorist that an attendant at the gas station was injured and bleeding, police said.
The attendant, Sha-Wha Chang of Asbury, suffered injuries to his head and facial area after being assaulted at the gas station, police said. Mr. Chang was transported to Somerset Medical Center, where he was treated and released.
He reportedly suffered a broken nose and possible concussion, police said.
After securing the crime scene, an initial on scene investigation led police to the two suspects.
Mr. Smith was immediately transported to the Somerset County Jail while Mr. Garrett was transported to the Somerset Medical Center for treatment of a medical condition before being transported to the Somerset County Jail.
Both men have posted bail and are awaiting a court date.
During the robbery, an unknown quantity of cigarettes were taken. The value of the stolen property has not yet been confirmed, police said.
An investigation in the crime remains in progress, police said.
Anyone who may have witnessed the incident should call Hillsborough police at 369-4323 to provide additional information.
