A North Carolina man is facing felony charges after police say he broke into a Little Caesars restaurant in Kinston, started making pizzas, and sold them to customers during a winter storm that had forced many businesses to close.
Investigators say the break-in happened Sunday as icy conditions swept across eastern North Carolina, leaving roads slick and storefronts shuttered.
Officers allege the man kept the cash from the pizza sales and later returned to the restaurant in an apparent second attempt to break in, at which point police arrested him. No injuries were reported.
Authorities say the suspect is now charged with multiple felonies, including breaking and entering and larceny, and remains in custody as the case moves through the court system.
Police also noted the unusual incident unfolded while much of the region was under weather-related advisories, with residents urged to stay off the roads.
Local officials say the investigation is ongoing, and additional charges are possible.