'Cheap' Gas Price Incites Tempers, Lines

INDIANAPOLIS -- Motorists jockeyed for position, honked their horns and screamed at each other as lines lengthened for a chance to fill their tanks at a relatively cheap price on Indianapolis' south side Wednesday night.

As many stations set their price for regular unleaded at $3.85 a gallon, a Swifty station sat at $3.55.

Lines stretched down the street for a bargain that only months ago would have been inconceivable.

"We've been waiting for about 45 minutes in line here for the price of $3.55, which I can't believe actually makes me happy right now," said Christy Dahlberg.

"Someone at work shared the news that her daughter was watching TV and everybody better get gas when they leave work, because it's going up near $4, so I went straight to it," said Pete Campbell.

Employee Debbie Stout struggled to keep up with demand as lines got longer. The $3.55 price stood as she awaited a call from her boss.

"When he calls and tells me to change, they're going to go ballistic," Stout said.

As motorists positioned themselves for a small number of pumps, there were jolting screams, shouts and fender benders, 6News' Ericka Flye reported.

As many drivers sat in their cars waiting to pay $3.55, the price jumped 30 cents to $3.85.

"They suck. When you've got to decide whether you want to buy a gallon of milk for your kids or a gallon of gas so you can get to work to feed your kids, it's not right," said Jade Alley.

Those who were still in line got a break, though. They were allowed to fill up at the lower price. For that, Stout got a hug from a grateful motorist.