Deputies: Gas station customers thwart attack on clerk

Authorities say two customers rushed into a gas station convenience store to rescue a cashier who was being attacked by a would-be robber.

The Volusia County Sheriff's Office said in a news release that 47-year-old Calvin Reese demanded money from cashier Karen Payne inside a Seville convenience store Sunday night. Authorities say Reese threw Payne to the ground and began kicking her after the cashier said she didn't have any money.

Sheriff's office spokesman Andrew Gant says Tyrone Jenkins and Jennifer Polgar heard Payne screaming for help and ran inside. Jenkins says Reese continued attacking Payne, so Jenkins punched Reese. Polgar then blocked the exits while Jenkins flagged down a deputy for help.

Reese is charged with robbery and battery. It's unclear whether he has an attorney.