Hammond City Council to consider shutting down gas stations overnight after deadly shooting

HAMMOND, Ind. (WLS) -- Hammond, Indiana will look at a plan to shut down its gas stations during the overnight hours.

Hammond Mayor Thomas McDermott Jr. said violent crime is happening late at night at the city's gas stations. He pointed to a murder that happened at one station just last month.

This is just a proposal right now. But if it does go through, most of the city's 37 stations would be required to close from midnight to 5 a.m.

"That would be hard because I go to work overnight, as well," said Cathrine Wieland. "So, I wouldn't be able to get gas before work."

Coming to Hammond to fill up is a daily errand for Wieland.

"Because the gas is so cheap," Wieland said. "We have to go to work, and so, if I have to get gas and I can't get gas, I'm not paying that Chicago price, I'm sorry."

But, the chance to come after midnight could be wrecked for many if a new ordinance, supported by McDermott, becomes law.

"Our gas stations are frequented by people who come into the city from Illinois for cheaper gas, cigarettes and other items, and in this instance a person was killed in our city while patronizing a gas station late at night," McDermott said. "I can't sit back and see innocent people become victims of violent crime."

Some patrons think the ordinance could help.

"Crime's going to happen regardless," said Bridgette Wright. "I mean, closing it at a certain time could probably, it might could help."

Some, however, don't agree with McDermott.

"Criminals, guys who have a criminal-set mind, are going to attack during the daytime, afternoon, evening, night. It doesn't make any difference as long as they have an opportunity to do so," said Russell Jones. "What they need to do is make sure that gas stations, stores that stay open 24 hours have the security that they need."

The proposal comes after, police said, a 33-year-old Chicago man was shot at a Luke gas station around 2a.m. on June 25. He later died at the hospital.

"Regardless of wherever you're at, Chicago, Hammond, South Holland, Dolton, Calumet City, you just got to stay safe," Wright said.

The ordinance would allow gas stations to petition the Board of Public Works and Safety for an exception to the rule. The city council will meet on Monday to consider the ordinance.