Columbus police are investigating a pair of armed robberies which took place early Sunday.
The first robbery occurred at 1:38 a.m. at 1127 15th St. N., where a 45-year-old man, who lives at that address, was sitting on his porch when he claims three masked black men approached him and demanded his wallet. The victim reported the men hit him in the face with a pistol, splitting his lip.
The victim was transported to Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle, where he received stitches for his injuries.
The second robbery occurred at 4:50 a.m. at 2206 Main St., the Economy Inn, where a 58-year-old black male claimed two masked black men kicked in the door to his room and demanded money.
The second victim also claims he was struck with a pistol, but declined a trip to the hospital.
The crime was not reported until 5:38 a.m. The victim told police he did not call immediately because the assailants warned him not to call the police and he was scared.
Investigators said they were uncertain if the two robberies are related.
You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 32 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.