What Was That Like - True Stories. Real People. 235: Jen was held up at work
18 snips
Nov 7, 2025 Retail work often brings bizarre stories, but an armed robbery takes the cake. Jen recounts the terrifying moment a masked gunman entered her store, revealing her quick thinking as she managed to direct customers to safety. While trapped, she provided comfort to panicking shoppers and coordinated a hidden 911 call. Afterward, the emotional toll of the trauma lingered, impacting her work life and mental health. Jen shares her journey of recovery, transforming her experiences into advocacy for other survivors.
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Robbery At The Fitting Rooms
- Jen describes being held at gunpoint in a women's clothing store and leading customers to the register while following robber's commands.
- She guided customers to the back room to protect them and surrendered phones and cash to avoid escalation.
Use Minimal Speech During A Robbery
- Follow store robbery training: speak as little and move as little as possible to avoid startling an assailant.
- Use nonverbal actions (like gesturing to coins) to communicate when silence is required.
Locked In Storage With Other Customers
- Jen recounts being forced into a dark storage room with other customers and the panic and praying that followed.
- She comforted a customer having a panic attack and coordinated help while staying silent to avoid the robber.
