Paparoni’s Pizza in Swansea held up at gunpoint Saturday night

Swansea, SC (Paul Kirby) – Two black males held up Paparoni’s Pizza at gunpoint Saturday night shortly after 8:30 p.m. Multiple callers immediately began to report the holdup after the two suspects fled on foot.

According to police radio traffic, the two black males went into the popular eatery wearing hoodies with masks on, presented a gun, and then fled across the street south on foot toward the day-care center. Police immediately began to respond and Gaston Police Department Major Stephen Watkins was first on the scene. He had been asked to respond by a Swansea officer who was returning to town from another area. He immediately began to take statements and review the store’s video footage. Lexington County K-9s were also requested and immediately began to saturate the area.

At approximately 9:00 p.m. Saturday, the restaurant is locked down as is the general area of Swansea’s downtown. Residents are asked to stay put, lock their doors, and stay out of the area if they aren't already near that location. If anyone sights anyone suspicious, they are asked to stay well clear and dial 911. We will provide updates as we learn more.