Bakersfield Circle K Clerk Assaulted During Attempted Beer Theft; Suspect Sought

BAKERSFIELD, California — Police are searching for a suspect involved in an attempted theft and physical assault on a convenience store clerk at a local Circle K in Bakersfield.

The incident took place on March 26, 2026, when an unidentified man entered the Circle K store and attempted to leave with several packages of beer without paying. When the store clerk confronted the individual near the exit, the suspect allegedly became aggressive and punched the clerk in the face before fleeing the scene empty-handed.

Medical personnel responded to evaluate the clerk, who sustained minor injuries but did not require hospitalization. The suspect is described as an adult male last seen wearing dark clothing, who fled the area on foot in an unknown direction.

The Bakersfield Police Department is reviewing security camera footage from the store and surrounding businesses. Anyone with information that could lead to the identification of the suspect is asked to contact the Bakersfield Police Department at (661) 327-7111.