The store that got looted and burned wasn't the same store that they robbed. But I do think the cop surprised them, and they panicked and got stupid.
That is possible. I read reports that the 'teens' were headed to a second QT (one with gas pumps). Perhaps they shoplifted there also before heading home.
Still the info on who the owner of the original QT was had to come out sometime.
If what you say is true, then the rioters just went after the nearest QT as a symbolic gesture. Or maybe they thought that was the only QT in town. Ya never know. People who loot and burn down buildings while being filmed are not too bright.