Chouteau Pharmacy Reopens After Semi Crash

By Chris Wright, The News On 6

CHOUTEAU, OK -- A Mayes County pharmacy is open again after a semi plowed into the store.

Police say a determined burglar used the truck to break in. Chouteau Police are still looking for the suspect.

But amazingly, only two days after a semi was parked in the middle of it, the pharmacy is open for business.

Employees were back filling prescriptions at Chouteau Discount Pharmacy on Wednesday.

"The ceiling just collapsed around it, and it was just utter, utter destruction," owner Karen Chase said.

Chase snapped several pictures after finding a semi, with its taillights still on, in the middle of the store.

Police say the burglar stole the truck from a nearby motel, used it to get in, and then took off with some prescription drugs.

The truck came in through the front entrance and didn't stop until it ended up about 50 feet away.

"I don't shock easily, unfortunately," Chase said. "I'm a little amazed they used a truck. It's pretty stupid."

After the shock wore off, Chase immediately focused on the cleanup. She says she simply couldn't afford to close down for very long.

A dumpster was brought in and immediately filled to the brim with debris. A contractor friend helped seal up the back wall.

"It's one of the real benefits of living in a town this size," Chase said. "So many people were available, and so many people knew we were in trouble and needed help."

It may not be perfect, but the pharmacy is back in business.

Chase while this is an unwelcome opportunity, she plans to take advantage of it.

"I've had customers come in and ask if we're remodeling, and I say yes, not by choice," she said.

Anyone who may know anything about the robbery is asked to call Chouteau Police at 476-5230.