dave submitted an article from CBS News describing a situation where an SUV owner filled up $52 worth of gas at a gas station, then attempted to drive off without paying. The gas station owner proceeded to try and stop him.

"Police say Caddi, owner of the Fort Payne Texaco, was killed when he grabbed hold of a vehicle and the driver dragged him across a car park and onto a highway. Caddi fell from the vehicle and was run over by the vehicle's rear wheel. A search for the driver and a gold or tan Jeep-style SUV continued Monday.

The Petroleum & Convenience Marketers of Alabama tells gas retailers to 'never try to take action themselves' during robberies, said Arleen Alexander, the group's executive director.

'But I can understand why someone would want to fight for their property,' Alexander said. 'Fifty-two dollars doesn't sound like that much, but with the little they're making these days, that's a lot.'"

Gasoline theft cost retailers nationwide $237 million in 2004 - more than twice the $112 million loss in 2003, according to NACS.

On average, one in every 1,100 gasoline fill-ups was a gas theft last year, the group said. With about one cent per 1 gallon as profit, a retailer would have to sell an extra 3,000 gallons to offset each $30 stolen, Lenard said.

Yeah, $52 is worth getting killed. And "little they're making these days"?!? With the price of gas it's hard to believe they're not making much money. Though I guess those oil barons in the Middle East gotta make enough to make a living.