MEMPHIS, Tenn—A man has been accused of attempting to rob a Shell convenience store situated next door to Elvis Presley's iconic Graceland estate, reportedly wielding a five-foot snake as part of his scheme.

A poisonous snake in the hands of man
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Man Attempts Robbery with Snake at Graceland-Area Store

Reginald Cook, 26, now faces two counts of attempted aggravated robbery following the incidents that unfolded early Tuesday morning.
Police reports indicate that Cook made multiple attempts to rob the Shell convenience store on Elvis Presley Boulevard.

Read More: Warning: Old Scam Becoming More Popular In Tennessee

A man is accused of attempting to rob a Shell convenience store next door to Elvis Presley’s Graceland by using a five-foot snake. (Source: WMC)
A man is accused of attempting to rob a Shell convenience store next door to Elvis Presley’s Graceland by using a five-foot snake. (Source: WMC)
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First Attempt

During his first visit, around 2 a.m., Cook allegedly entered the store and told the cashier he was armed, prompting concern from store employees. However, he left without any money.

Undeterred, Cook returned to the store twice more within the span of a few hours

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Second Attempt

Cook entered the store again and demanded money from the register. The employee said that Cook kept reaching into his clothing, implying that he had a gun, but Cook left the store after the victim refused to give him money.

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Getty Images/iStockphoto
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Third Attempt

During his third attempt, at approximately 3:05 a.m., Cook made a startling entrance, this time with a hefty five-foot snake wrapped around his neck.

Eyewitnesses describe Cook approaching the store counter, shouting and demanding money once again. A store employee drew his own firearm in self-defense when Cook was seen reaching into his backpack, indicating he might be armed.

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Police Arrive At The Shell

Fortunately, police arrived on the scene and managed to apprehend Cook without any injuries sustained or money taken. The fate and origin of the snake remain unclear, leaving authorities puzzled over its involvement in the incident.

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