11/4/09
Center Point, Alabama
From the October 21, 2009 Birmingham News:
A barrage of gunfire erupted during a robbery attempt in the Center Point area Tuesday night, authorities said today.
Two employees of the Phone Store at 2111 Center Point Road were closing up for the night about 8 p.m. when a man came from behind a trash bin and pointed a gun at the female employee as she was getting in her car, saying "Give up your money; you might as well give it up."
When the male employee tried to take cover, the gunman opened fire. The male employee returned fire, firing eight shots at the robber who took off running, said Jefferson County sheriff's spokesman Lt. Randy Christian.
Labels: AL, street robbery
10/28/09
Grove City, Ohio
From 10TV of October 26, 2009
Police: Victim Shoots Would-Be Robber
Police said that a robbery victim acted in self-defense when he shot a man who was trying to rob him late Monday morning.
The incident occurred at about 11 a.m. behind a Wendy's restaurant, located on Broadway.
Investigators told 10TV's Glenn McEntyre that a man was walking his dog when another man approached him with a gun and demanded his wallet.
The victim complied and then pulled out his own gun, shooting the robber, police said.
The accused robber, Keith Walker Jr., ran to a nearby neighborhood where he collapsed. Walker underwent surgery at Grant Medical Center in Columbus, McEntyre reported.
Amir Ibrahim, 19, was charged with tampering with evidence in connection with the incident. According to police, Ibrahim lives at the home where Walker collapsed and hid his gun and the victim's wallet inside the home.
Labels: OH, street robbery
10/19/09
Jefferson City, Missouri
From the October 14, 2009 News-Tribune:
A parole absconder from St. Louis is believed to have shot another man in a Tuesday night robbery near downtown Jefferson City, then was shot by one of his victims who acted in self-defense.
Patrick Evans, 37, who was released from prison two weeks ago, was found hiding in a small room in an upstairs apartment at 611 E. Capitol Ave. just after 7 a.m. Wednesday, more than 8 hours after the shooting incident downstairs at the same address, according to police reports.
"Officers were ready to re-canvass the area as daylight broke when they found a new blood trail which led to the apartment," said Capt. Mike Smith of the Jefferson City Police Department. "A female resident, we believe, helped hide him."
Late Wednesday afternoon, the Cole County prosecutor charged Evans with first-degree robbery. The charges say Evans also is known as Patrick Harris.
Labels: MO, street robbery
10/12/09
Polk County, Florida
From ABC Action News of October 12, 2009
Polk man shoots shotgun-wielding robber
The Polk County Sheriff's Office says the victim of a would-be armed robbery shot one of his attackers on Sunday.
Johnny Preston told deputies he was in the front yard of his Lakeland home preparing his cargo van for work around 6 p.m. He spotted two men in a red 4-door Mazda driving by slowly, staring at him.
Preston became suspicious and retrieved his .38 caliber Smith & Wesson revolver from inside the van and wrote down the Mazda's vehicle tag number.
He went back to preparing his van. Moments later, he looked up and was staring down the barrel of a shotgun. The two men, who were wearing t-shirts over their faces, demanded his wallet.
Preston said he pushed the barrel of the shotgun away with one hand and fired his handgun with the other, hitting the armed suspect in the torso.
The suspect, identified as Michael Darnell Richardson of Lakeland, drove himself to Plant City Hospital where he was treated and arrested.
The other other suspect, identified as Mario Ford of Plant City, fled on foot, and was found hiding under a parked car.
Preston was not injured.
Labels: FL, street robbery
10/11/09
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
From KYW of October 11, 2009
Robbery Victim Fatally Shoots Suspect in W. Oak Lane
Philadelphia homicide detectives are investigating a shooting death of an unidentified man around midnight in the city's Ogontz section of West Oak Lane. In this case it was the victim of a would-be robbery that turned the tables around on an armed bandit.
The armed robber was shot when he tried to rob to his victim. The incident took place in the 6400 block of north 15th street in the city's Ogontz section in West Oak Lane.
The 24-year-old armed suspect was pronounced dead at the scene of a chest wound. Police say the victim who he had targeted to rob was carrying a hand gun. When the suspect demanded all his money, the victim pulled out a gun and fired a shot killing the suspect, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police say the suspect matches the description in two other hold-ups Saturday night and investigators say they do not expect to charge the victim.
Labels: PA, street robbery
10/9/09
Tuscon, Arizona
From the Arizona Star of October 6, 2009
Would-be robber shot by victim
A man suffered life-threatening wounds when he attempted to rob another man at a midtown car wash and was shot by the victim, Tucson police said.
The incident occurred at a self-service car wash on East 22nd Street near South Beverly Avenue just before 4:30 p.m. Tuesday.
Police said a 50-year-old man was at the car wash washing his vehicle when he was approached by an 18-year-old man.
The younger man pulled out a gun and attempted to rob the older man, police said.
The older man pulled out his own gun and shot the 18 year old.
The younger man ran away and got into a car that was being driven by another person. A short time later, the 18-year-old man showed up at a hospital with life-threatening wounds, police said.
The 50-year-old man was not injured.
He’s being questioned by police as is the driver of the car who took the wounded man to the hospital.
Labels: AZ, street robbery
9/30/09
Jacksonville, Florida
From September 30, 2009 Jacksonville channel 4:
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Police said one of two men who tried to steal a pickup truck from a group of people gathered outside a Murray Hill home was shot several times by a homeowner and his friend.
Jacksonville Sheriff's Office Lt. Larry Schmitt said when police arrived at the 3000 block of College Street, they found a man shot multiple times.
According to the police report, Keith Loftin was outside the home with some friends shortly after 2 a.m. when two men asked for a ride in Loftin's truck. Loftin said one of the men pulled a gun on them and forced Loftin into his truck. Loftin told officers that his friend, Barry Smith, ran into the house and returned with a gun and Loftin pulled his own gun from inside the truck.
Police said both Loftin and Smith fired at one of the men, striking him multiple times.
The man shot, identified as Jamel Mobley, 21, of St. Marys, Ga., was taken to Shands-Jacksonville Medical Center and was in stable condition. Police said the second man took off. Police were still looking for him, but they have only a vague description.
The shooting was still under investigation and no charges have been filed. Schmitt said it appeared both the citizens had the guns legally and that it appeared the shooting was in self-defense.
Labels: carjacking, FL, kidnapping, street robbery
9/27/09
New Eagle, Pennsylvania
From the September 26, 2009 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette:
The victim of a robbery attempt shot and killed one of the robbers in New Eagle early yesterday, state police said.
Police said William Eyles, 25, of Monongahela, and Cole MacFarlane, 25, of New Eagle, tried to rob Joseph Gallick, who pulled a gun and shot Mr. Eyles.
Mr. Gallick was treated at Monongahela Hospital for injuries incurred during the crime. Mr. MacFarlane was charged with homicide, attempted robbery, conspiracy and criminal mischief and is in the Washington County Correctional Facility.
Labels: PA, street robbery
Detroit, Michigan
From the September 25, 2009 Lansing (Michigan) State-Journal:
DETROIT - A 43-year-old woman shot and killed a suspected purse snatcher who confronted her at a northwest Detroit gas station this morning, according to police.Two men approached the Detroit woman at about 5:30 a.m. at the Schoolcraft and Southfield Mobil station, Detroit Police spokesman John Roach said. The woman is licensed to legally carry a gun for self-defense, he said.
"They didn't realize she has a CCW (license), so she had a weapon of her own," Roach said. "She fired several rounds at the suspects and they fled."
The pair made off with the woman's purse. But about a half-hour later, a man with several gunshot wounds went to Sinai-Grace Hospital for treatment and died later this morning.
"At this point, we believe this is one of the individuals in the robbery," Roach said about the man who was shot.
Labels: concealed carry permit, MI, street robbery
9/21/09
Dayton, Ohio
From the Dayton Daily News of September 19, 2009
Elderly victim shoots would-be robber, 24, police say
A 24-year-old man who allegedly got out of his car and tried to rob an elderly man at gunpoint was shot by the would-be victim, who was licensed to carry a concealed weapon and fired to defend himself, police said.
The younger man was shot twice on Saturday, Sept. 19, and was taken to Miami Valley Hospital, where he was under guard, Dayton police Sgt. Damon Castor said. The gunshot injuries were not believed to be life-threatening, Castor said.
“Apparently he was trying to rob the older gentleman of something,” Castor said of the younger man. “He picked on the wrong person.”
The would-be victim, in his 70s, was not injured, Castor said. The confrontation took place at West Third Street and Brooklyn Avenue in west Dayton, police said.
It was not clear whether the alleged attacker was trying to steal the older man’s car or money, Castor said.
No charges had been filed Saturday. Police are investigating.
Labels: concealed carry permit, OH, senior, street robbery
9/16/09
Starkville, Mississippi
From the Starkville Daily News of September 15, 2009
Business owner fires shots at would-be robber
Starkville Police Department detectives say they are tracking several leads in the early Saturday morning robbery attempt that saw the victim fire gunshots at the suspect who tried to hold him up.
Around 5:30 a.m. Saturday, the owner of Starkville Ready Cash on Highway 12 West was arriving at the business to prepare to open for the day when a black male approached him, pointing a handgun at him.
The owner, whose name SPD detectives would not release amid concerns for his safety, then pulled out a handgun of his own and fired multiple shots at the suspect, but none struck him, said Sgt. Chadd Garnett.
The owner had begun carrying the gun after previous break-ins and robbery attempts at the business, Garnett said.
The suspect then ran behind the building and fled north toward a neighboring residential area, Garnett said. Nothing was stolen in the robbery attempt, and no one was injured, Garnett said.
“We’re still in the preliminary stages of the investigation, and we are tracking multiple leads as we speak,” said Garnett Monday afternoon.
The suspect was described as a heavy-set black male wearing a white T-shirt, khaki pants and some sort of head covering, Garnett said.
Some physical evidence was recovered at the scene, but Garnett would not specify what was collected, including whether surveillance cameras may have recorded images of the suspect.
Anyone with information about the robbery attempt is encouraged to call the Police Department at 323-4131.
Tips may also be given by calling Golden Triangle Crime Stoppers at 1-800-530-7151. All Crime Stoppers tips are confidential and could result in a reward of up to $1,000 if the tip leads to an arrest in this case or any felony crime.
Labels: MS, street robbery
9/2/09
Detroit, Michigan
From the Detroit News of August 25, 2009
Teen tries to rob Detroiter, ends up shot by victi
A 17-year-old would-be armed robber had the tables turned on him this morning when his intended victim pulled out his own gun and shot the teen, police said.
Now, instead of the money he allegedly sought to steal, the teen will get a lengthy hospital stay -- and, if he recovers and is convicted, a lengthy prison sentence.
The incident happened about 5 a.m. this morning behind an apartment building at 1670 Oakman, Detroit Police spokesman John Roach said.
"The 17-year-old came up behind a 32-year-old man behind the apartment building and tried to rob him at gunpoint," Roach said. "But the 32-year-old had a CCW (a license to carry a concealed weapon), and had his own sidearm with him. He pulled his weapon and they exchanged gunfire."
When the shooting was over, the 32-year-old had only suffered a minor injury to the head, while the alleged bandit was seriously wounded. He was taken to an area hospital, where he remains in critical condition, Roach said.
"If he recovers, he'll likely be charged with armed robbery, and probably attempted murder," Roach said.
Labels: concealed carry permit, MI, minor offender, street robbery
8/18/09
Lake City, Florida
From the August 18, 2009 Gainesville (Fla.) Sun:
A Hollywood, Fla., man, who died over the weekend after he was shot earlier in the week, apparently had been trying to rob another man when he was fatally injured, Lake City police reported.
Lenoris Owens, 27, was found semiconscious and bleeding shortly before 10 p.m. on Aug. 12 near the intersection of Congress and Saint Clair streets, according to the Lake City Police Department. He died Saturday. Police described Owens' injuries as a gunshot wound to the head.
Investigators now believe Owens was trying to rob a Lake City man when he was wounded. The two had struggled over the weapon when the other man, Oteger Greene, 24, got the gun and fired twice, hitting Owens once, according to officers.
Initially, police identified Greene as a person of interest in the case.
But officers now think Greene was trying to protect himself, Capt. Rudolph Davis said.
"The evidence points that he was defending himself," he said.
Labels: FL, street robbery
8/15/09
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
From the August 14, 2009 Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel:
A 17-year-old killed Thursday by a man he was trying to rob had been ordered to stay out of trouble in March after he pleaded guilty to taking a woman’s car on a joy ride.
Kevin Ollie, also known as Devin, was supposed to participate in a substance abuse treatment program, stay in school or hold down a job and perform 20 hours of community service, according to a deferred prosecution agreement he signed March 23.
Less than a month later, Ollie tested positive for THC, according to a July 11 letter from a juvenile justice program that was monitoring him.
On Friday, the Milwaukee Police Department Sgt. Mark Stanmeyer identified Ollie as the teen killed early Thursday as he and a 19-year-old associate tried to rob a man in the 2600 block of N. 1st St.
The deceased teen shot his accomplice during the robbery attempt, according to police.
The district attorney’s office is reviewing the shooting to determine whether charges will be brought against the target of the robbery, Police Department spokeswoman Anne E. Schwartz said.
When the suspects confronted a 22-year-old man on the street he pulled out his own gun and shot the younger teen, Stanmeyer said. Somehow, the older teen was shot and suffered a non-life threatening injury, Stanmeyer said.
Labels: minor offender, street robbery, WI
Houston, Texas
From July 31, 2009 KTRK channel 13:
HOUSTON (KTRK) -- A vendor says three teens approached him and attacked while he was working. That's when he says he pulled out a gun and fired, killing one of the suspects.
The confrontation started about 11pm on MLK near Reed Road. Authorities tell us the vendor was parked at a gas station as he was delivering snack products to the store. Police say he was inside the store and when he walked back out, he was approached by three teenage boys who demanded the snack products.
When the vendor refused, authorities say the teens, all three of them, began to assault the vendor by punching, kicking and hitting him. During the assault, the vendor was able to defend himself.
"The individual is a concealed handgun license carrier, was armed at the time, retrieved a weapon and subsequently shot and killed an individual here on the scene," said Officer Brian Evans with the Houston Police Department.
Labels: concealed carry permit, minor offender, street robbery, TX
8/14/09
Lancaster County, South Carolina
From WSOC of August 14, 2009
Man Shot Intruder, Turned Out To Be Neighbor
Authorities said a homeowner shot and killed a teenager trying to rob him Friday morning. Turns out, that teenager lived right next door.
Lancaster County sheriff's deputies said 18-year-old Jarkevious Ingram walked out of the woods on Culp Street late Thursday night with two other men. One was wearing a ski mask and two of them, including Ingram, had guns, deputies said.
Detectives said they approached 34-year-old Ed Patterson Jr. who was just getting home. According to deputies, the three men demanded Patterson's wallet and his keys.
Patterson struggled for the gun and was shot twice, once in the stomach and once in the groin. He managed to wrestle the gun away and shoot Ingram, deputies said.
Ingram walked more than 100 yards down Culp Street and collapsed on Fahbian McCullough's front porch.
"I looked out and he was lying on the porch, and there was blood everywhere," McCullough said.
He said Ingram was his friend and was at his house nearly every day. He had heard gunshots, but didn't know what was going on until he opened the door and found Ingram.
"I asked him what happened, and he said, ‘Be quiet.' He wouldn't tell me," McCullough said.
Patterson was able to drive himself to Springs Memorial Hospital, and he was later flown to Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte. Deputies said his injuries were not life- threatening.
Mikesheia Wade is Ingram's cousin. She was at his side at the hospital when he died.
"I was there with him the whole time. I was holding his hand. He wasn't doing too well," Wade said. "I don't think he did this. The truth is going to be different than what people think.”
Lancaster County sheriff's deputies said they don't yet know why it appears Ingram tried to rob his own neighbor. Cousins said the two families have lived next door to each other for more than a year.
Major David Belk said detectives are still investigating, and it's not known if Patterson will face charges.
Deputies said they did recover the gun, a .38-caliber revolver that Patterson left in his sport utility vehicle when he drove to the hospital.
Labels: criminal's gun taken away and used against him, SC, street robbery
8/13/09
Memphis, Tennessee
From the Commercial Appeal of August 11, 2009
'Victims' part of robbery try
A victim's tale of robbery and murder unraveled when investigators learned that she'd participated in the stickup that backfired and turned deadly, police said Monday.
Ashley Brannon, 22, has been charged with facilitation of attempted aggravated robbery.
Brannon told police Thursday morning that a man forced his way into the back seat of her 2008 Dodge Avenger about 6:30 a.m. outside the Exxon at 4040 S. Third, pulling a gun and demanding money.
She told officers a friend in the passenger seat, Gregory Mitchell, 18, struggled with the robber, then was shot to death.
But another version of the homicide emerged during the investigation.
According to a police affidavit:
Brannon, boyfriend Calvin Jefferson, Mitchell, and another man, Edgar Smith, 24, spent the early morning hours Thursday gambling, and Smith was seen with "a large amount of money."
Brannon later drove Mitchell and Smith to the Exxon, ostensibly to get money Brannon's boyfriend owed Smith.
Brannon went inside the Exxon, then came out holding money she'd pretended to withdraw from the ATM. Mitchell then pulled a gun and turned to rob Smith, who was sitting in the rear seat.
But Smith pulled his own gun and shot Mitchell.
Brannon then drove south on Third, stopping briefly after Smith, who was trapped in the back seat by the child safety locks, told her to let him out.
He ran away.
Brannon then turned west on Raines and drove to Westmont, about a mile and a half from the Exxon, where she stopped the car and called Jefferson, who came to the scene. Jefferson has not been charged in the case.
Brannon then called 911.
Mitchell died on Westmont from his gunshot wounds.
Monday afternoon, stuffed animals and a bright red poster bearing hand-written "RIP" notes for Mitchell were affixed to a nearby power pole.
The shooting has been ruled self-defense, said Memphis Police Department spokeswoman Karen Rudolph. No one else has been charged, although the investigation is continuing, she said.
Brannon, who was being held on $40,000 bond, made an initial court appearance Monday morning.
**Emphasis added**
Labels: street robbery, TN
Durham, North Carolina
From WRAL of August 9, 2009
Duke student shot during struggle with would-be robber
A Duke student struggled with a man who tried to rob him, resulting in gunfire that wounded him and possibly the would-be robber, Durham police said.
The student and a woman were walking in the 500 block of Watts Street shortly before midnight Saturday when a man armed with a gun approached them from behind, police said. He ordered the pair to put their hands on their heads and started to search them.
A struggle ensued over the gun, and two shots were fired, police said. The student was shot in the abdomen, and the attempted robber fled.
"I was pretty sure that it was shots, not firecrackers. ... It was like right here, and the woman, she was screaming her guts out,” said Anita Akella, a Duke graduate student who lives nearby.
The victim, whose identity hasn't been released, was treated at a nearby hospital. The woman was uninjured.
The gunman was limping when he fled and might have been shot, police said. He was described as black, approximately 40 years old, 5 feet 11 inches tall, with a stocky build. He has bulging eyes. He wore a gray shirt and dark jeans.
The shooting happened one block from Duke's East Campus, where first-year students are to move in next week.
Graduate student Melanie Oberman said the shooting happened outside the apartment she recently rented.
"I definitely don't feel comfortable living in the house until I have security put in," she said. "I had no idea that something could happen right outside my door like that."
Residents said Trinity Park neighborhood has long been a safe area.
“It makes me very sad, more than it does fearful," homeowner Sally Spears said. "But the world we live in now has turned into the situation that it is."
Anyone with any information about the shooting should call Crime Stoppers at 919-683-1200. Crime Stoppers pays cash rewards for information leading to arrests in felony cases, and callers never have to identify themselves.
Labels: defender shot, defender's gun taken away and used against him, NC, street robbery, student defender
Dekalb County, Georgia
From the Atlanta Journal-Constitution of August 3, 2009
Lithonia schoolteacher exchanges gunfire with carjackers
A DeKalb County schoolteacher carjacked early Sunday scored a measure of revenge against his attackers -- thanks in part to their poor sense of direction.
Derek Harper, 47, had just returned to his Lithonia home around 1:15 a.m. when two unidentified gunmen surprised him from behind, forcing the Evansdale Elementary teacher out of his car and onto the ground, demanding money.
“After they figured out I didn’t have any cash on me they got into my van,” he said. His narrow garage helped Harper sneak away.
“One of them was having trouble getting into the passenger’s side, so while he was doing that I took off,” said Harper, also the assistant track coach at Stephenson High.
As he ran the gunmen started firing, striking Harper once in the arm before speeding off in his van, heading directly toward a dead end on Phillips Place.
Knowing they’d be forced to turn around, Harper ran inside and grabbed his .380 pistol.
“I was waiting for them,” he said. Harper estimates he fired two to three bullets, which might have contributed to the driver crashing the van less than a block away. A small amount of blood was found inside the vehicle.
“It’s badly damaged,” said Harper, who was to have returned to work Monday following the summer break. He’s home recovering instead.
His neighborhood is “fairly quiet,” he said. “Everyone sticks together.”
While some high-profile carjackings have captured headlines in the city of Atlanta, DeKalb Police spokeswoman Mekka Parish said she has not heard of any in her jurisdiction for several months.
Regardless, Harper said he was surprised to end up a victim.
“I drive a minivan,” he said. “It’s nothing special.”
An arrest was made in the case late Monday morning. Parish said the name is being withheld due to the ongoing investigation.
Labels: carjacking, GA, street robbery
Walnut Creek, California
From the Contra Costa Times of August 11, 2009
Would-be Walnut Creek armored truck robber flees after guard pulls gun
A man tried to rob an armored truck security guard Tuesday morning before running away, police said.
The robbery attempt took place as the armored truck was parked near the intersection of South California Boulevard and Botelho Drive. The story was first reported by the blog Claycord.com, which obtained its information from a police radio broadcast.
At 10:30 a.m., the truck was parked as the guard was making a money pick-up at a business, Lt. Tim Barrett said. A man approached the guard and demanded he give him money. Instead, the guard went to pull out a firearm, and the would-be robber got into a white Dodge Caravan and drove away.
He did not appear to be armed, Barrett said. Police did not have a detailed description of him.
Labels: CA, private security, street robbery
7/29/09
Orange County, Florida
From WFTV of July 25, 2009
Would-Be Robber Shot and Killed
Orange County Sheriff's deputies say a robbery victim turned the tables on two robbery suspects.
“I was in my bedroom sleeping and all of a sudden I heard a pow, pow, pow,” said eyewitness Barry Quintin.
Deputies say Miguel Jimenez was walking into his apartment at Villa Tuscany near Ocoee when 18-year-old Andri Benjamin ran up, put a gun in his face and tried to rob him.
But Jimenez was carrying a loaded revolver and a concealed weapons permit to go along with it.
He pulled his gun out and shot Benjamin several times, killing him.
Neighbor Barry Quintin says his roommate opened their front door moments after the shooting.
“We saw the person laying down on the ground and I was like shut the damn door, and he's like, he's bleeding, and I'm like shut the door and call 911,” said Quintin.
Deputies rushed to the scene while Jimenez was holding the second suspect at gunpoint.
Now there are questions about the safety at the apartment complex.
“Villa Tuscany has to beef up their security because we don't have any security here. The only security we have is the gates up front and obviously that's not good enough, said resident Harvey Vives.
Quintin says he understands his neighbor was just protecting himself.
But he wishes it didn't have to come to such a violent and deadly ending.
“It's just a little too much.”
Labels: concealed carry permit, FL, street robbery
7/26/09
Miami, Florida
From the Florida Sun Sentinel of July 25, 2009
Brinks security guard fatally shot a would-be robber in Miami, witnesses say
A Brinks security guard shot and killed a would-be robber who attacked him while he was making a routine stop at a South Miami-Dade health clinic Friday, according to witnesses.
After the 2 p.m. shooting outside the Doris Ison Health Center, 10300 SW 216th St., Miami-Dade police arrested two other suspects after a search of surrounding neighborhoods.
Miami-Dade police have not identified the dead man. Those arrested also were not identified.
"According to investigators, shots were fired when three subjects, armed with firearms, attempted to rob an armored truck crew making a pick up or delivery at the health center located at 10300 SW 216th Street,'' a Miami-Dade police statement said late Friday.
One employee of the health center, who did not want to be identified, told The Miami Herald that the shooting took place after the apparent robber attacked the Brinks security guard. The guard, said the witness, then shot the man outside the health center, which remained under lockdown for hours as police officers swarmed the area in search of the other suspects.
Miami Herald news partner WFOR-CBS 4 reported that police found the other suspects less than a mile away at the Cutler Creek Town Homes.
They reported that police officers went house to house and then surrounded one home.
Much of the area surrounding the health clinic and the neighborhood near the townhomes was swarming with police officers following the shooting.
La Petite Academy, a day care center on 216th Street in Cutler Bay, was placed on lockdown for hours, with parents not allowed to pick up their children, the station reported.
Labels: FL, private security, street robbery
7/23/09
Houston, Texas
From the Houston Chronicle of July 23, 2009
74-year-old man shoots carjacker in SW Houston
A 74-year-old man shot and wounded a teenager who attempted to carjack him with a knife early this morning in southwest Houston, police said.
The 18-year-old male suspect was wounded in the abdomen and was caught by police after he tried to run away following the shooting. He was taken to Ben Taub General Hospital in fair condition.
No other injuries were reported.
Police have not released the suspect's name because no charges have been filed against him, but investigators said that he will mostly likely be charged with aggravated robbery.
The shooting happened outside a home in the 10900 block of Corona in southwest Houston about 6:30 a.m., police said.
The victim, August Peters, had just parked his car in front of his wife's home when he noticed another car drive past him and park at the curb across the street.
When the victim got out of his car, he told investigators that the teen came up to him and pressed a knife against his throat.
"He said, 'Give me your car or I'll kill you,'" said Victor Senties, a spokesman for the Houston Police Department.
The victim was able to reach inside his car to get a pistol. He fired two shots at the suspect, Senties said.
The suspect ran into the driveway of a home across the street and then somehow got into the home. He broke a window to get out and continued running away. Senties said no one was at the home at the time.
Police found the teen moments later on bridge on Wilcrest near Bellaire about two blocks from where he was shot.
Investigators are uncertain if the teenager got out of the car the victim had seen park on the street. They have no description of the vehicle and no other suspects at this time.
Labels: senior, street robbery, TX
7/18/09
Lafayette, Indiana
From the July 17, 2009 Lafayette (Ind.) Journal & Courier:
Investigators here plan to contact authorities in northwest Indiana to help locate three suspects in a Craigs-list exchange that turned into an armed robbery earlier this month.
Eugene A. Hall, 49, of Gary; Edward D. Mercer, 27, of Hammond; and Jarrod E. Rodriguez, 26, of Gary were each charged Thursday with six felony counts.Warrants were issued out of Tippecanoe Superior Court 2 for their rearrest.
The criminal allegations stem from a shooting July 1 outside a Subway restaurant at 3990 Indiana 38 E. in Lafayette. No one was injured after at least six rounds were fired.
Here's what took place, according to a probable cause affidavit filed with the charges:
Hall, Mercer and Rodriguez had arranged to meet in the Subway parking lot to purchase tires and rims listed on Craigslist by two Indianapolis men.
But after agreeing upon a purchase price of $3,100 and handing over the cash, two of the buyers pulled handguns and demanded the money back.
Guns were held to both victims' heads. One of them, Kyle Delord Bostic, also was armed.
Shots were then fired by both parties.
The La-fayette Police Department stopped a van that Hall, Mercer and Rodriguez were in shortly after on Indiana 38 East. Tires and rims allegedly taken during the exchange were in the back seat.
Officers found a revolver and ammunition near the road that a witness said the three men had discarded there.
Detective Mark Pinkard said Thursday criminal charges will not be pursued against Bostic or the other Indianapolis man, Courtney Robinson, because their shots were fired in self-defense.
Bostic also was properly licensed for his firearm.
"We deemed it as a life-preserving measure on their part," Pinkard said.
Labels: concealed carry permit, IN, street robbery
7/15/09
Allentown, Pennsylvania
From the June 28, 2009 Allentown Morning Call:
An Allentown man and a 17-year-old juvenile got more than they bargained for when they attempted to rob city resident Michael Dawes early Saturday morning, according to police.
Dawes, 38, of N. 13th Street, was smoking a cigarette near 13th and Union streets about 3:45 a.m. when the juvenile approached and asked for a dollar, said police Capt. Daryl Hendricks. Dawes said he didn't have a dollar and the youth moved away.
Moments later, Albert Torres Jr., 24, of 841 Tilghman St. approached Dawes and asked for marijuana, getting the same reply, Hendricks said. At that point, the two attacked Dawes, who pulled a registered handgun and started firing.
Dawes got off two shots, but the assailants, who quickly fled, were not hit, Hendricks said. When police arrived, Dawes spotted a car he'd seen lurking in the area before the incident. Police stopped the car, and Dawes identified the two people inside as those who tried to attack him.
Torres was charged with robbery, conspiracy, attempted theft and simple assault, Hendricks said. The youth was sent to a juvenile detention facility.
Labels: concealed carry permit, minor offender, PA, street robbery
7/9/09
Memphis, Tennessee
From Eyewitness News of July 9, 2009
2 Criminals Shot During Jewelry Robbery in East Memphis
Two people have been shot during an attempted robbery of a jewelry vender in East Memphis.
It happened around 3:00 p.m., Wednesday, July 8, 2009, in the 5300 block of Poplar Avenue, outside of the Hopson Building. myEyewitnessNews.com was first on the scene, just seconds after the call went out to Memphis Police.
Police say a jewelry vender was doing business inside the building just before the shooting happened. The man told police that he had been followed by four men, but didn’t know how long they were watching him. Investigators say when the man left the building, the four suspects tried to rob him. The vendor then pulled his gun and shot two of the would be robbers, police said.
Police say the two who were shot are in critical condition. Investigators also tell myEyewitnessNews.com the jeweler, 62 year-old Stephen Fleischman was targeted by the four men. It's believed the would be robbers were following Fleischman for quite some time.
Authorities say they are searching for two Latino men in a white Ford Fusion. Surveillance cameras captured the car leaving the parking garage seconds after the shooting. The Building Manager tells myEyewitnessNews Memphis Police Investigators are working to blow up the video to get a better look at the suspects and a possible license plate number.
Labels: street robbery, TN
6/18/09
Richland County, South Carolina
From WLTX of June 12, 2009
Man Shoots, Kills Robbery Suspect
Richland County deputies are investigating a fatal shooting at an apartment complex.
The incident took place at 12:01 a.m. Friday at the Colonial Villa Apartments on Garners Ferry Road.
According to deputies, a man was sitting in his car doing paperwork at the time of the confrontation. Deputies say he provides security detail for the apartments.
Deputies say a male suspect approached the car demanding the victim's handgun; however, deputies say the victim pulled out that weapon and shot the suspect.
The suspect was taken to the hospital where he later died.
WLTX.com will post further details as they become available.
Labels: private security, SC, street robbery
6/11/09
Detroit, Michigan
From WDIV of June 11, 2009
Gun Turned On Would-Be Robber
A 16-year-old was shot and wounded with his own gun Thursday morning during an attempted robbery on Detroit's west side, police said.
Two teenagers, one carrying a rifle and the other a handgun, approached a man at the BPS Gas Station on Plymouth Road and the northbound Southfield Service Drive around 6:40 a.m.
The robbery victim grabbed a gun out of the teen's hand and shot him with it.
The wounded teen jumped into a vehicle and attempted to drive away, but crashed into several cars on Forrer Street.
He was transported to Sinai Grace Hospital and is in stable condition.
The other robber fled the area. There are unconfirmed police reports that the second robbery suspect was arrested in downtown Detroit.
Labels: criminal's gun taken away and used against him, MI, minor offender, street robbery
Sarasota, Florida
From June 11, 2009 WWSB channel 7:
SARASOTA, FL. - A juvenile attempting to rob a Sarasota man by gunpoint ends up being shot by the victim.
According to the Sarasota Police Department, officers responded to the 3900 block of N. Rilma Avenue early Thursday in reference to an armed robbery.
Once on scene it was determined that the victim, 54-year-old Elliot Firby, had been followed home from the area of University and U.S. 301 by a black full-sized pickup truck.
While Firby was attempting to unlock the fence surrounding his residence the pickup truck pulled in front of his driveway. As the pickup truck came to a stop a single black male exited the vehicle's passenger door armed with a shotgun. The black male ordered the victim to the ground.
As Firby was kneeling down with his hands over his head the suspect began fumbling with the shotgun. At this point Firby reached into his pocket retrieved his personal firearm and shot at the suspect twice. Firby has a valid concealed weapons permit.
According to Firby, the suspect was struck once in the abdomen. The suspect dropped the shotgun and a t-shirt in the victim's yard, jumped into the passenger side of the pickup truck and fled the area.
A short time later a juvenile was dropped off by a black full sized pickup truck at the Sarasota Memorial Hospital with a single bullet wound to his abdomen. The pickup truck and it's driver did not remain at the hospital. The truck was later located at the suspect's residence, it was towed for processing to the Sarasota Police Department.
Labels: FL, minor offender, street robbery
5/7/09
Racine, Wisconsin
From the May 6, 2009 Racine County Journal Times:
RACINE — Four teens knocked a 42-year-old Racine man from his bike Friday night. He thought they were going to rob him.UPDATE: From the May 15, 2009 Racine Journal Times:
The man pulled a Smith and Wesson revolver from his side holster, pointed it at the sky and yelled, “Gun!”
The four suspects ran, and the man flagged down a Racine police officer.
The incident will perhaps mark the first time a new opinion allowing open carry of firearms is put to the test here, as it conflicts with another state statute that makes it illegal to possess a gun within 1,000 feet of a school, if not on private property.
The Racine man involved, who asked not to be named and declined to comment on the alleged robbery attempt when contacted by The Journal Times, was assaulted in the 1100 block of Grand Avenue, which is within 1,000 feet of Walden School, 1012 Center St.
Police did not arrest the man. After he was treated for head and wrist injuries at the scene by Racine rescue, officers escorted the man home and returned his gun to him.
But that doesn’t mean charges won’t be filed against the man, and police are questioning how such situations should be handled in the future.
“It’s difficult with the way the laws are written to carry (a gun) and not get into trouble,” said police spokesman Lt. Jim Dobbs.
He said the new open carry ruling will probably prompt more and more people to wear firearms, but in many places in the city, even stepping off their front porch would mean they are breaking the law.
“People will break the law inadvertently,” Dobbs said. “We want clarification from the state on what we should be doing.”
Last month, Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen sent out a memo saying openly wearing a holstered gun is not illegal. While Wisconsin law states a person cannot legally carry a concealed weapon, it does not address carrying a firearm in plain sight.
The opinion has created many questions, now including the apparent conflict between the existing statute over possessing a firearm near a school.
RACINE — The armed bicyclist who scared off a group of teens he believed were trying to rob him earlier this month will not be charged, the Racine County District Attorney’s Office said Friday.
In a letter to the 42-year-old Racine man, who has asked not to be identified, District Attorney Mike Nieskes wrote, “After speaking with the investigating officer on this matter, I have decided it would not be in the greater interest of justice in the community to charge you with violation of Wisconsin Statute regarding gun free zones.”
According to police reports, the man was riding his bicycle in the 1100 block of Grand Avenue on May 1 when he was knocked from his bicycle by four teens. The man told police he thought the group was trying to rob him, so he pulled out the revolver he was openly carrying in a side holster. Reports said he pointed the gun at the sky and yelled, “Gun!”
The group of teens fled and the man flagged down a Racine police officer. During the assault, the man suffered a wrist injury. He was treated at the scene by Racine rescue.
Police did not arrest the man. They escorted him home and returned his gun to him.
However, the incident raised questions from law enforcement because the man was armed within a 1,000 feet of a school, which is illegal under state statute. The current law conflicts with a recent opinion by the state Attorney General’s Office which said it is legal to openly carry a firearm.
In his letter, Nieskes said the decision not to charge the man was based on the recent determination of the attorney general, along with the man’s lack of prior criminal record and no showing of irresponsible use of the firearm. “I don’t believe it would be appropriate to charge you,” Nieskes wrote. “I will presume that you understand that despite the announcement by the Attorney General for the State of Wisconsin regarding open carry, that you and all other individuals, a notable exception being on-duty police officers, are barred from possessing a firearm in certain circumstances and place.”
Labels: street robbery, WI
5/2/09
Olney, Pennsylvania
From April 16, 2009 WPVI channel 6, Philadelphia:
OLNEY - April 16, 2009 (WPVI) -- An 18-year-old man is hospitalized after being shot in Olney by a man he allegedly tried to rob.
It happened around 9:00 p.m. Thursday night at 3rd Street and Roosevelt Boulevard.
Police say the 18-year-old was found shot in the leg.
He was taken to Einstein Hospital.
His injuries are said to be nonlife threatening.
According to authorities, the 18-year-old was allegedly trying to rob the man who would eventually shoot him.
Labels: PA, street robbery
4/24/09
Tucson, Arizona
From the April 24, 2009 Arizona Daily Star:
A woman who tried to carjack a man at gunpoint outside a North Side Walgreens early Thursday was shot and wounded by the man, police said.The man called police around 12:30 a.m. to report he had just shot one of two women who tried to take his car as he waited in the pharmacy drive-through near East Grant and North Swan roads, said Sgt. Fabian Pacheco, a Tucson Police Department spokesman.Pacheco gave this account:The 26-year-old man, whose name was not released, had just left Tucson Medical Center and went to fill a prescription.When he drove back to the drugstore to check on his prescription, two women came up to his car. One was armed with a gun.The woman tried to shoot the man, but he pulled his own gun while she was trying to pull the trigger. Her gun didn't fire for an unknown reason.The man fired his gun twice. One shot grazed her head, and the other struck her in the shoulder.The woman fell to the ground, and the man took her gun away.
Labels: AZ, concealed carry permit, street robbery
4/9/09
Palm Coast, Florida
From the News-Journal Online of April 9, 2009
Gunfight breaks out during attempted robbery
A gunfight broke out in a Palm Coast neighborhood early today during an attempted robbery.
Gunfire erupted when a man armed with a silver handgun attempted to rob a man who had just returned home on Folcroft Lane after purchasing a prescription at a local pharmacy, Flagler County Sheriff’s Office investigators said. They are still looking for the gunman.
The resident had just returned from a Walgreens store on Palm Coast Parkway at 1:11 a.m. with his medications. As he was getting out of his car, deputies said the gunman rushed into the garage and demanded the drugs.
In an attempt to scare off the intruder, the man said he yelled as loud as he could. Instead of fleeing, the intruder took a shot at him., deputies said.
The resident wasn’t hit but quickly retrieved his own handgun and began shooting back at his assailant.
Nobody was hurt, although a car parked in the neighbor’s driveway was hit with one of the rounds, according to a news release.
"We need to identify this individual and get him off the streets," said Sheriff Donald Fleming.
The intruder is described as a black male, 5-foot-7, wearing a white shirt and dark pants. He fled the area in a green Dodge Caravan, deputies said.
Anyone with information is being asked to call the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office at 386-313-4911 or CrimeStoppers at 1-888-277-TIPS (8477).
Labels: FL, street robbery
Houston, Texas
From April 8, 2009 channel 2 in Houston:
HOUSTON -- One person was killed when a group of men tried to steal a boat while driving down a freeway, KPRC Local 2 reported.
Houston police said three men in a car tried to steal a boat that a man was hauling with his pickup truck on Interstate 45 at about 1 a.m.
Investigators said the men in the car opened fire on the man in the pickup truck. The man in the pickup truck returned fire, officials said.One of the men inside the car was killed. The driver of the car stopped at a gas station on North Shepherd Drive for help.
The driver of the pickup truck lost control and ended up a field. There were fish in the boat because the man was returning from a fishing trip at Lake Conroe.
Labels: street robbery, TX
3/24/09
Little Rock, Arkansas
From Today's THV of March 24, 2009
LR Man Defends Wife, Wounds Would-Be Robber
A trip to Wal-Mart on Cantrell Road ended in a violent struggle for a Little Rock couple.
It happened around 11:20 p.m. Monday night in a Wal-Mart parking lot off Cantrell Rd and Chenal Parkway.
Police say the couple tried to get away from the man, but when it didn't work, they took action.
Monday night, Jamie Bitely left the store and walked into what police say was a couple turning the tables on a would-be robber.
"The first thing I heard was the first gun shot and that's when I turned to see what was going on," says Bitely.
"That's when I saw the man who was apparently the victim and I seen him fire the his fire arm [SIC] a couple more times at that time that's when I laid down on the ground until the shots stop," says Bitely.
According to the police report, a husband and wife were unloading groceries into their Jeep when a man wearing a wig and cap allegedly confronted them, pointing a gun. At that point, the report says the suspect said "'This is a robbery'" and went after the woman's purse.
Police say the suspect allegedly hit the woman and ripped the bag from the woman's arm. Police say that's when her husband took action.
Sgt. Cassandra Davis says the husband fired at Jonathan Terry, hitting him in the rear end.
"The husband than retrieved his own personal weapon. He did ask the suspect to release his wife and the purse. The suspect refused," says Sgt. Davis.
Police say Terry jumped into a waiting car and his friends, Sherry Battle and Tequila Rice drove him to UAMS. "They were at the hospital and our officers took those individuals into custody also," explains Sgt. Davis.
All three are facing Aggravated Robbery Charges. This news put some witnesses like David Rollins only slightly at ease. "I'm a little bit more scared going to Wal-Mart late at night," says Rollins.
Police say Battles and Rice fought with officers and are also facing battery charges.
Today's THV has the couple's names, but since they haven't been charged with a crime, we've decided not to mention them to protect their privacy.
Labels: AR, assault, concealed carry permit, street robbery
3/7/09
Opelika, Alabama
From the March 6, 2009 Opelika-Auburn News:
An Opelika man approached by a gunman demanding money Thursday night took matters into his own hands by drawing his own weapon and shooting the robber, police said.
The report states the robbery took place at 11:46 p.m. in the 1000 block of York Avenue, Opelika police Capt. Allan Elkins said. The victim shot the robber in the buttocks, Elkins said.
The injured robber was transported to East Alabama Medical Center, where he is being treated and detained, Elkins said. As of Friday morning, no arrest had been made, Elkins said.
Labels: AL, street robbery
2/25/09
New Castle, Delaware
From the News Journal of February 24, 2009
Man wrangles handgun from would-be robber
When a New Castle area man found himself being held up at gunpoint early today, he managed to wrestle the weapon away from the would-be robber, a woman, police said.
The bandit, who was unsuccessful in the robbery attempt, then ran off before New Castle County officers arrived.
The incident occurred about 12:30 a.m. at the Georgetown Village Apartments, county police spokesman Cpl. Trinidad Navarro said.
Officers were called to Building R in response to the robbery report and spoke with the 51-year-old victim, who still had the woman's gun.
He told the officers that he was about to enter his apartment building when he heard someone run up behind him.
He turned around to see a woman approaching the building, so he held the door open for her only to be accosted at gunpoint.
The man was able to wrestle the handgun away from the woman, run to his apartment and call police.
The woman, meanwhile, ran out of the building and disappeared.
Officers searched the area with a police canine, but the dog lost the scent nearby, which indicated that the would-be bandit probably escaped in a car, Navarro said.
The woman is described as petite, in her early 20s, with black hair and weighing 100 pounds.
She was dressed in dark green pants, a dark green shirt and a blue knit cap.
Anyone with information is asked to call police at 395-8110 or Delaware Crime Stoppers at (800) TIP-3333.
Labels: criminal's gun taken away and used against him, DE, street robbery
2/19/09
Yakima, Washington
From the January 22, 2009 Tri-City Herald:
YAKIMA -- A robbery suspect was shot dead by an armed civilian late Monday, the first incident of justifiable homicide city police said they could recall in recent memory.
Franklin McWain, 33, died at a hospital from multiple gunshot wounds to the chest. An autopsy was performed Tuesday.
A police news release said the shooting occurred in the 800 block of North Second Street about 11 p.m. Monday.
According to the release, a 27-year-old Yakima man told officers he was waiting outside a residence for a friend when he was approached by McWain.
The man, identified as Michael Valadez, 27, said McWain struck him on the head with a stick and demanded money. Valadez told police he was struck several more times before firing two shots at McWain. Valadez had a valid concealed weapons permit.
Valadez ran from the area and flagged down a passing police officer. He was taken to a hospital for treatment of a head wound and a broken left arm.
The release said police found evidence at the scene that backed up the man's story.
He has not been charged with a crime. The case is being referred to the Yakima County prosecutor.
McWain was a longtime Yakima resident whose criminal history included six felonies, police said.
Court records show he was found guilty of charges related to eluding, theft and drugs, among other offenses.
Labels: concealed carry permit, street robbery, WA
2/14/09
Atlanta, Georiga
From the Atlanta Journal-Constitution of February 8, 2009
Two crime victims kill their attackers in metro Atlanta
Two crime victims in metro Atlanta fought back on Saturday and killed their attackers, authorities reported.
In Cobb County, police said a man shot in his own garage grabbed the would-be robber’s gun and shot and killed the man.
In Atlanta, police said a woman fatally stabbed a home-invasion robbery suspect who broke into her apartment while her 11-year-old child slept.
No charges have been filed in either case.
Cobb police spokesman Sgt. Dana Pierce said Richard Ellis, 38, of Cauthen Court in Marietta was getting out of his car in his garage late Saturday night when he was approached by a man with a handgun. The man demanded money from Ellis and shot him in the leg, police said. Pierce said the incident was not a random crime and that the two men had “previous contact” in the past.
“Within moments of being shot and while the male is briefly distracted, Ellis grabbed the gun and a fight ensued in the driveway of the residence over control of it,” Pierce said. “Detectives believe that Ellis was eventually able to wrestle the weapon away from the male before shooting him twice with it.”
The wounded man, identified as John Harrison, 33, of Palmetto, ran to the front porch of a nearby house and collapsed, Pierce said. Harrison was taken to Wellstar Kennestone Hospital but died of his injuries. Ellis was treated at the hospital for his wound and released.
Labels: criminal's gun taken away and used against him, defender shot, GA, street robbery
2/8/09
Stone Mountain, Georiga
From WSBTV of February 2, 2009
Robber Shot During Stick-Up Attempt
The target of a robbery fought back Monday by pulling a gun and shooting and wounding the stick-up man.
The armed robber approached the man at the U-Wash carwash on Rockbridge Road.
The would-be victim pulled his own gun and opened fire, hitting the robbery suspect.
The wounded man was taken to the hospital where he's in stable condition and facing armed robbery charges.
Labels: GA, street robbery
1/15/09
Atlanta, Georgia
From the Atlanta Journal-Constitution of January 15, 2009
Robbery suspect shot, killed in East Atlanta
A robbery suspect was shot and killed by his intended victim outside an East Atlanta Village bar late Wednesday, Atlanta police said Thursday.
Police do not believe the shooting has any connection to the recent high-profile killing at a Grant Park bar.
The suspected robber, a 29-year-old man from the Decatur area, carried a Colt .40-caliber handgun, while the gun that killed bar worker John Henderson was a 9mm, Atlanta police Detective Michael Willis said.
The killing Wednesday comes a week after Henderson’s killing in another popular hangout about two miles away, Standard Food & Spirits, sparked an outpouring of community support and galvanized grassroots efforts to improve public safety by some who say the city is becoming more dangerous.
Willis said he could not release the identity of the dead man Thursday morning because he had not yet notified relatives of his death.
The detective also declined to name the man and woman police said were the intended robbery victims. The man who opened fire in self defense is a 28-year-old who works in the airline industry and lives in a northern suburb of Atlanta, possibly Cobb County, Willis said.
The woman he was with — they have been dating for a couple of months — is around 40 years old and lives in the Marietta area, Willis said.
Wednesday night, the couple made their way to the popular East Atlanta Village, known for its trendy bars and eateries, because they have been taking swing-dancing lessons, Willis said.
Their dancing instructor told them that one of the East Atlanta bars, Graveyard Tavern, had “big band nights,” Willis said.
“So they came down here to dance,” Willis said.
When they left the bar around 11:15 p.m., the man gave his date the keys to his Ford Ranger pickup truck so she could drive. They walked to the truck, parked in an Ace Hardware lot across a side street on the same side of Glenwood Avenue.
Inside the vehicle, the woman was adjusting the driver’s seat and mirrors when the man looked over his shoulder and saw a man standing at his passenger window, Willis said.
Believing the man was going to beg for money, the passenger rolled down his window a few inches, Willis said. But he had a strange feeling about the man, so he grabbed his gun from the glove box and put it on his lap, Willis said.
He asked the stranger what he wanted, and noticed the man was reaching for his waistband or pockets, the detective said. Instinctively, the passenger shoved open his door, knocking the suspected robber back a few feet, Willis said. The woman started screaming.
The man got out of the truck and the suspected robber raised a weapon at him, Willis said. “When he saw that, he just started shooting,” the detective said.
The man shot the suspected robber five or six times, in the stomach and chest, Willis said. The robber did not fire any shots.
“He just got the jump on him,” Willis said of the victim. “He told me he fired until the guy was no longer a threat to him.”
Willis said the man’s accuracy was impressive. In an interview later, the man told Willis that his brother used to shoot firearms competitively and taught him to shoot.
As one could expect, the shooting left the man and his companion visibly shaken.
“He actually said, ‘I’m surprised I haven’t thrown up yet,’ ” Willis said. “He was that upset.”
Willis said he did not know much about the suspected robber. A criminal background check did not reveal any recent arrests by Atlanta police, but he might have a criminal history in DeKalb County.
Labels: GA, street robbery
1/12/09
Hammond, Indiana
From the Northwest Indiana Times of January 12, 2009
Police: Man shoots, kills suspect in Hammond robbery attemptFrom the Northwest Indiana Times of January 12, 2009
An attempted robbery early Sunday morning turned fatal for one of the suspects, police said.
A 38-year-old man and his girlfriend were exiting their sport-utility vehicle in the parking lot of McTavern's bar in the 7400 block of Indianapolis Boulevard when two people attempted to rob the couple, according to a Hammond police news release.
Another person is believed to have been an accomplice in the attempted robbery, Police Chief Brian Miller said.
The owner of the vehicle took a handgun from the SUV and shot one of the suspects in the chest, the release states. The shooting victim died at the scene before Hammond Fire Department personnel could provide further treatment and he could get to a hospital.
Kenneth Denson, 17, of the 600 block of East 131st Street in Chicago, was pronounced dead from a gunshot wound to the chest about 1:30 a.m., a Lake County coroner's office spokeswoman said Sunday.
The second robbery suspect and an accomplice fled from the scene in a vehicle and traveled north on Indianapolis Boulevard into East Chicago, where they crashed and police apprehended them. Miller said an illegal narcotic drug was found in the vehicle.
Police said the investigation continues. The man who shot Denson has cooperated with police and has turned over his handgun.
Charges could be filed today against the other two suspects in custody, Miller said.
In September, a 40-year-old Gary man, Eric Lowe, was shot and killed outside of McTavern's following a dispute. Lowe was a security worker for the bar.
Police: Statements support self defense claim in fatal shooting
Hammond police believe a man who shot and killed a would-be robber outside of a bar there early Sunday legitimately acted in self defense.
Hammond Police Chief Brian Miller said the 38-year-old Gary man was released after providing a statement to police about the incident.
"We do believe that his version of the story is true and credible," Miller said, adding that the man had a valid license to carry the weapon and purchased it legally.
Statements from witnesses to the attempted robbery and shooting assisted as well, he said.
"We had some outstanding participation by witnesses," Miller said.
(More)
Labels: concealed carry permit, IN, minor offender, street robbery
1/10/09
Orlando, Florida
From WESH of January 9, 2009
Police: Man Shoots, Kills Armed Robber At Car Wash
A car wash customer in Orange County shot and killed a man he said was trying to rob him on Friday.
The shooting happened at Mr. Big's Super Car Wash off Orange Blossom Trail.
"During this attempted robbery, the victim, who holds a concealed weapons permit, pulled out his weapon and fired shots into the bad guy," said Orange County Sheriff's Office Commander Paul Hopkins.
The alleged robber was shot in a car wash stall. He ran about 50 feet and fell near some orange cones.
Hopkins said the shooter was washing his car when two men approached him. He said one had a sawed-off shotgun.
Hopkins said that modus operandi fits a series of recent holdups.
"We've responded to about five robberies in the last week where these have been similar types of events, the sawed-off shotguns," Hopkins said.
Hopkins said the most recent shooting at the car wash appears to be similar to an incident in Ocoee, where a man shot a robber who was beating a store clerk.
"For the bad guys out there, you never know who you're dealing with," Hopkins said. "When you go out to commit this crime, you might be the one who's lying dead in the parking lot."
Investigators said there were two suspects. One died in the parking lot and the other is still on the run.
Labels: concealed carry permit, FL, street robbery
1/7/09
West Park, Florida
From Florida Today of December 26, 2008
West Park homeowner kills robber
An armed robber who held a West Park man at gunpoint outside his home early this morning was killed when his victim pulled out a gun and fired first, the Broward County Sheriff's Office said.
Brian Kelley, 22, was returning to his apartment in the 4100 block of Southwest 19th Street about 4:39 a.m. when he said Kenneth Nelson, 42, came up from behind him and put a gun to his head, according to sheriff’s office spokesman Mike Jachles.
Kelley pulled out his own handgun and fired, striking and killing Nelson, of Hollywood.
Homicides detectives questioned Kelley after the shooting but did not take him into custody. Kelley acted in self-defense, investigators believe, but the sheriff’s office will present the case to the Broward State Attorney's Office for review.
Labels: FL, street robbery
1/6/09
Thibodaux, Louisiana
From the Daily Comet of January 2, 2009
Police say victim shot robbery suspect
Police said a city man was shot and wounded Thursday night while trying to rob another at gunpoint near a Canal Boulevard convenience store.
Police responding to a report of a man shot just after 8 p.m. found 34-year-old Lee Diggs of 534 St. Charles St. lying on the ground near the Turner Motel with gunshot wounds to the hip and stomach areas, Thibodaux Police Chief Craig Melancon said.
Just after officers arrived, Melancon said, they were approached by Terrence Triggs of Schriever, who told them he believed he had shot a man who was trying to rob him through his truck’s driver-side window.
“He stated he had been robbed and in self-defense shot the individual who robbed him,” Melancon said this morning.
Triggs had called 911 to report the shooting.
Diggs was taken to Thibodaux Regional Medical Center where he is under police guard, and will be booked at a later time for armed robbery, Melancon said.
Melancon said officers are looking for an alleged accomplice to the robbery.
A warrant has been issued for 33-year-old Antoine Baptiste of Thibodaux.
Melancon said Baptiste approached Triggs, the robbery victim, inside the convenience store.
Triggs, who had been celebrating his birthday, was wearing a large gold chain. Relatives and friends had pinned several $100 bills to it, and during the robbery, the money was taken, police said.
After the shooting, Melancon said, Baptiste ran from the truck and went to the wounded Diggs’ side, taking his pistol — described as a small-calibre weapon — and hiding it.
The pistol was later found by police.
No charges have been filed against Triggs.
Labels: LA, street robbery
Memphis, Tennessee
From the Memphis Commercial Appeal of December 28, 2008
Robbery suspect tangles with Elvis
The lesson here is, don’t mess with The King.
Or at least don’t mess with Elvis Smith.
Around 5:30 p.m. today, Smith, 49, and his two brothers were cleaning up a lot in North Memphis when a man approached them with a gun.
“He tried to rob them and one of the gentlemen had a handgun on him,” Memphis police Lt. Jerry Gwyn said. “He exchanged gunfire with the suspect. The suspect lost the gun battle.”
The suspect was hit in the chest and leg but is expected to live. An investigation is under way, but Gwyn said it’s unlikely Smith will face any charges.
Labels: street robbery, TN
12/27/08
Orlando, Florida
From December 25, 2008 WESH:
ORLANDO, Fla. - Police continue to search for two men who tried to grab a woman’s purse as she walked toward the Fashion Square Mall on Tuesday.A third man was shot and arrested, apparently by a bystander who saw the robbery, police said Wednesday. Willie Keys-Fairclough, 29, who is hospitalized with minor injuries, was arrested in connection with the incident.
The incident began about 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday when the woman got off a LYNX bus and walked to an ATM to check her balance. She then continued toward the mall.
“She felt people come up to her, maybe one, maybe two,” Sgt. Barb Jones of the Orlando Police Department said. “They tried to grab her purse...She resisted. She started yelling, that's when everything started unfolding."One shopper, who saw the men with guns, got his own.
“You had a citizen engage the suspects,” Jones said Wednesday. “There were some rounds fired."
The suspects ran across the street, and police said they found one man hiding behind a dumpster. The man had been shot in the leg but didn't know it.
The man, later identified by police as Keys-Fairclough, is charged with armed robbery and aggravated assault with a gun. Two other suspects remain on the run.
Labels: FL, street robbery
Oak Park, Illinois
From December 22, 2008 Chicago Breaking News:
Oak Park police said a would-be armed robber got more than he bargained for when he attempted to steal a leather jacket from another man in the near-west suburb Sunday night.
The owner of the leather jacket, after being approached, shot the 25-year-old in the face, the arm and the pelvis near North Lombard and North Avenues, police said.
The man underwent surgery for his wounds Sunday night at Stroger Hospital in Chicago and is expected to survive, Cmdr. Clement Harbour said.
Police are seeking the gunman, and no charges have been filed in the case as of Monday, Harbour said.
Labels: IL, street robbery
12/19/08
Fort Smith, Arkansas
From December 17, 2008 KFSM channel 5:
FORT SMITH - She's a woman who knows how to protect herself as two men who tried to rob her found out. What they didn't know was the woman is licensed to carry a concealed weapon...and yes, she was packing heat.
"A lady was flagged over Sunday evening about 6 p.m. on the interstate between Kelley Highway and the Arkansas river bridge." Lt. Steve Coppinger with State Police says that two men in a car signaled that the woman was getting a flat tire.
"When she pulled over to check her tires one of those person in that other car got out and attempted to rob her at knife point."
But what the thief didn't expect happened next. Coppinger says the female driver pulled out her handgun.
"She pointed that at her attacker and he backed away, got in the car and they fled."
Investigators say the would-have-been victim was able to turn the tables because she had a concealed carry permit. State police are keeping some details of the investigation close to their vest so they will know when they get the right guys. Right now, officials are saying they believe this to be an isolated incident.
Additional commentary at Weathering the Broken Links.
Labels: AR, concealed carry permit, female, street robbery
12/18/08
Terrel, Texas
From the MyFoxDFW of December 18, 2008
Dog Walker Kills Armed Teen Robber, Police Say
A man walking his dog in Terrell on Wednesday fatally shot an armed 17-year-old robber, police said.
The incident happened at about 10:20 p.m. in Ben Gill Park in the 100 block of Lions Club Lane where, police said, a group of teen robbers surrounded the man.
According to investigators, Markee Lamar Johnson pulled out a gun and the 47-year-old man, a licensed concealed handgun owner, fired shots.
The 17-year-old Terrell High School student was struck in the head and died at Parkland Hospital. His weapon was recovered at the scene and later determined to be stolen during a separate offense in Terrell, according to police.
Police said they would not likely file charges against the man.
"I think in this particular situation, it would be a clear example of someone exercising their rights to protect themselves under the law," Capt. A.D. Sanson said.
Three other teen suspects fled the scene in a vehicle that was recovered in the 300 block of S. Park Street, police said.
Police identified the the other suspects and arrested one of them. Ryan Scott Patterson, 17, is charged with aggravated robbery.
The robbery victim, who did not want to be identified, was not injured.
Labels: minor offender, street robbery, TX
Baltimore, Maryland
From the Baltimore Sun of December 15, 2008
Baltimore Police Blotter
Police were seeking two men and a woman who attempted to rob three males at Hammershire and Reisterstown roads about 9:30 p.m. Friday. While the men walked down the street, a man armed with a handgun and a woman also carrying a handgun exited a silver Toyota Camry occupied by a second man and demanded their money. When one of the victims grabbed one of the guns, the two fled back to the car and drove off with no money or property.
Labels: criminal's gun taken away and used against him, MD, street robbery
12/8/08
Birmingham, Alabama
From the Birmingham News of December 5, 2008
Birmingham teen murder suspect in wrong place, mother says
The adoptive mother of a teen charged with capital murder of an acquaintance who was killed while the two were robbing someone Sunday said her son was in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Malik Hameed, 17, is remorseful over his involvement in a weekend robbery that left his accomplice, a family friend, dead, said his mother, Hamidah Hameed, 56.
"All he's been doing is crying and asking me to come get him," Hamidah Hameed said. "He keeps saying, `Mama, I'm sorry.' I told him he had a chance to think and make a different choice, but he didn't think. He just asked me to hug him and hold him."
Police say Malik Hameed and Patrick Cortez Levert, 26, were shot Sunday in the 100 block of Cotton Avenue Southwest while trying to rob a 39-year-old man at gunpoint.
The man pulled a gun and shot both, police said.
Levert, found on the sidewalk, was taken to UAB Hospital, where he died. Someone drove Hameed to Princeton Baptist Medical Center, where he was treated and later taken into police custody.
Though Hameed didn't shoot Levert, he is charged with capital murder because he was a conspirator in a crime that resulted in death, police said.
Hamidah Hameed said witnesses have told family members her son wasn't armed.
"We haven't been able to verify whether he was or wasn't armed," said Birmingham homicide Sgt. Scott Thurmond. "But from talking to him, he knew what was going on prior to getting there. He knew the deal."
(More)
Labels: AL, minor offender, street robbery
11/25/08
Miami, Florida
From NBC6 of November 17, 2008
Coral Springs Man Shot In Groin During Robbery Attempt
A Coral Springs man is recovering after being shot in the groin by a man demanding his wallet, police said.
Mark David Braun was confronted outside his home before dawn Monday, NBC 6 reported.
Braun said he went out for a pack of cigarettes, and as he was coming back home a stranger approached him with a gun and asked for his wallet.
He pushed the would-be robber's gun away, and then the robber saw Braun's gun and ran, but not before firing one shot, Braun said.
Braun was airlifted to North Broward Medical Center. His wife, who was home with their 3-year-old son, saw the shooter run away and get into a car.
Braun was released from the hospital a few hours after being shot.
Police are still searching for the shooter.
Labels: defender shot, FL, street robbery
Rockford, Illinois
From WREX of November 19, 2008
Attempted Robbery Ends With Shooting
A 22-year-old man is under arrest after a morning shooting that started as an armed robbery attempt.
Police say C.L. Phillips got into 29-year-old Antwonne Hudson's car on Searles Avenue, pointed a gun at him, and tried to rob him. Phillips drove the car to Sablewood Drive where there was an altercation, he got his hands on the gun, and shot Phillips in the foot.
Phillips was treated and released at Rockford Memorial Hospital. He is now charged with Unlawful Use of Weapons by Felon and Armed Robbery.
Labels: criminal's gun taken away and used against him, IL, street robbery
New Castle, Delaware
From the News Journal of November 25, 2008
Police: Robber shot by would-be victim
An armed robber who tried to stick up a New Castle area man was shot himself when his would-be victim pulled out his own gun and fired at him.
The gunshot victim later reported to police that he was shot during a robbery that went awry.
New Castle County police spokesman Cpl. Trinidad Navarro said the holdup happened at 5:45 p.m. Monday in the first block of Chesterfield Drive in Garfield Park.
A 37-year-old man told officers that he was taking items out of his car when two men walked up to him and stuck an object in his side and attempted to rob him.
The victim said he thought the assailants were going to shoot him, so he pulled out his own 9 mm handgun and fired one round at the suspects.
Navarro said the man was not sure if he hit either of the assailants, although he did hear a loud moaning sound after he fired the shot.
The two would-be robbers ran off in the direction of Bizarre Drive.
While officers were on their way to the first call about the robbery, a second call came in about an 18-year-old man with a gunshot wound to his upper chest.
The shooting victim told the officers he was shot by a group of men who tried to rob him on Briarcliff Drive.
He was admitted to Christiana Hospital in stable condition.
Officers investigating the first case on Chesterfield Road recovered the gun from the victim and are holding it as evidence.
The shooting and attempted robbery remain under investigation.
No charges have been filed pending the outcome of the investigation.
Labels: DE, street robbery
11/8/08
Mobile, Alabama
From the Press-Register of November 4, 2008
Shot teens attended Vigor, police say
Two teens shot during a robbery attempt Friday apparently followed their victim to his home after seeing him withdraw money from an ATM miles away, police said.
Seventeen-year-old Antonio Austin was killed in the confrontation. Nineteen-year-old Robert Howez was shot in the back and taken to the University of South Alabama Medical Center, where he was listed in fair condition Monday.
Howez will face a charge of first-degree robbery upon his release, authorities said.
Both teens were listed as students at Vigor High School, said Deputy Chief James Barber.
Barber declined to identify the 60-year-old man who was the alleged robbery target, saying the man does not currently face criminal charges in the shooting, which has been characterized by Mobile County District Attorney John Tyson Jr. as a case of self-defense.
Police have also questioned two other teens investigators believe were in a car just down the street from the attempted robbery, Barber said.
The car left the area when the shooting started, according to police.
Investigators were still trying to determine what role the people in the car might have had in the robbery, Barber said.
"We don't have probable cause to charge them at this point," he said. He declined to release the names of those two teens or what schools they attend because they haven't been charged.
The attempted robbery, according to police accounts, occurred like this:
The man was returning to his home on West Belvedere Circle, near Hank Aaron Stadium, shortly after 6 p.m. Friday when, as he was getting out of his car, he was accosted by two teenagers, one armed with a revolver.
The armed teen demanded that the man hand over the money from the ATM. Instead, he drew his own pistol and opened fire.
Howez could face a murder charge in Austin's death even though he didn't fire the shot that killed him, Barber said, as Alabama law allows criminals to be held liable for the death of an accomplice killed in the commission of a violent felony.
"That will be a question for the district attorney," Barber said.
Labels: AL, minor offender, street robbery
10/31/08
Mobile, Alabama
From the Press-Register of October 31, 2008
Police: Two men shot in robbery attempt
A Mobile man shot at two would-be robbers, killing one of them, when "he was accosted" tonight in his driveway, a police spokesman said.
Sgt. Marcus Young said the injured man was taken by ambulance to the University of South Alabama Medical Center, while the other man was pronounced dead at the scene, at 1050 W. Belvedere Circle off Halls Mill Road.
A man living at the residence was pulling into his driveway when he was approached by the two men, one of whom had a handgun, Young said. The men demanded money from the resident, who retrieved a handgun and shot both robbers, Young said.
The man taken to the hospital was critically wounded, said Sgt. William Reed, who responded to the scene. He said it did not appear that the alleged robbers returned fire, and the shooter was not injured.
The incident occurred about 6:10 p.m. in the neighborhood just east of Hank Aaron Stadium.
"On the face of it, under Alabama law, you have a right to defend yourself and ... if the investigation reveals that is what happened here, then no charges would be brought," said Mobile County District Attorney John Tyson Jr. "But we have to be very careful and say this is still a preliminary investigation and more must be done before a decision is made."
Labels: AL, street robbery
10/17/08
Fort Worth, Texas
From the Star-Telegram of October 17, 2008
Man fatally shoots would-be robber, police say
Two men with shotguns tried to rob a man late Thursday in southeast Fort Worth, but the would-be victim pulled his own gun, killing one, police said.
Anthony Wilson, 27, of Arlington died at about 10 p.m. at Huguley Hospital, according to the Tarrant County medical examiner's office.
Wilson went to the hospital after the shooting, which happened an hour earlier outside a home in the 3800 block of Radford Road, according to reports. The neighborhood is southwest of the intersection of East Berry Street and East Loop 820.
Police responding to a report of shots fired at the address met with the 35-year-old resident, who said he was in his pickup outside the home when he was approached by two men toting shotguns.
The man was "forced to lie down in the street while the suspects contemplated what to do next," said Lt. Paul Henderson, police spokesman.
"One of the men," Henderson said, "decided to force (the resident) back inside his residence and told him to get up. As (he) began to stand up he retrieved a handgun that was concealed in his pants and began slinging lead at the two would-be robbers.
"One suspect was hit multiple times and immediately collapsed in the street."
The other man ran southbound from the location, Henderson said.
"A car drove by," he added, "and picked up the collapsed suspect and left the area."
Meanwhile, the hospital staff at Huguley called police to report that a man had just arrived with multiple gunshot wounds, but the man, later identified as Wilson, could not be saved, Henderson said.
Later, a 26-year-old man was brought to the hospital by a family member "to talk to police about his involvement with the shooting," Henderson said.
That man was not wounded, but he was questioned at police headquarters and subsequently arrested for an outstanding aggravated assault warrant out of Arlington, Henderson said.
"His involvement in the shooting is still not clear," Henderson said. "It is unknown if there are any others involved. The investigation is ongoing."
The man who shot the robbers was not charged with anything Thursday night, Henderson said.
He noted, however, the Tarrant County District Attorney's Office can consider whether to refer the man's case to a grand jury, which is routine.
Labels: street robbery, TX
10/11/08
Buffalo, New York
From the October 11, 2008 Buffalo News:
A pizza deliveryman fought off three robbers at gunpoint and shot one of them in the back Thursday night, police say.
The deliveryman, who works for Tomatoes Pizza on Kensington Avenue, walked up to the house in the 400 block of Dartmouth Avenue and was confronted by the three would-be robbers, police said. At least one of the bandits had a gun.
The deliveryman, whose name has not been released, works for the same pizza shop where another deliveryman was fatally wounded during a robbery on New Years Eve 16 years ago.
No charges have been filed in the overnight shooting and attempted robbery, as detectives continue to investigate.
Buffalo police say the deliveryman was not injured.
"He has a permit for the gun, and he apparently used it lawfully to defend himself," Buffalo police spokesman Michael J. DeGeorge said at mid-morning.
Police also have not identified the 15-year-old male who was shot once in the back during Thursday night's robbery attempt.
Following the shooting, which occurred at about 9:45 p.m., the three attempted robbers fled to nearby Shirley Avenue, where at least one of them apparently lives. The wounded teen was taken from there to Erie County Medical Center, where police said he's in stable condition.
Labels: concealed carry permit, NY, pizza delivery driver, street robbery
10/8/08
Columbus, Ohio
From the Columbus Dispatch of October 7, 2008
Man kills would-be robber on North Side
A Columbus man was killed this evening when, witnesses told police, he tried to rob a couple in a North Side parking lot.
Thomas E. Goldsmith Jr., 27, was pronounced dead at the scene around 5 p.m. Franklin County records had addresses for him on Roche Drive and Linden Avenue on the North Side.
Witnesses told police that Goldsmith approached a couple in their car at Kenmore Square Apartments holding a gun and demanded money from the man at the steering wheel, witnesses said. Goldsmith's gun misfired and the man in the car, identified as Deandre R. Henry, began shooting his own gun.
Henry, 24, of 3490 Derrer Field Drive on the Hilltop, called 911 from his cell phone and told them he had shot someone. Witnesses said he told police, "I shot this dude because he tried to rob me. What was I supposed to do? My girlfriend's pregnant." He emptied his gun of bullets and stayed in the parking lot until police arrived, witnesses said.
Columbus assault squad Sgt. Christ Holzhauser said several guns were recovered at the scene, and that Henry is cooperating with the investigation.
Holzhauser said self-defense "is definitely a possibility.
"If it ends up being a self-defense thing, it was very smart on his part to stay on the scene," Holzhauser said.
Police were not issuing chargs pending a county grand jury investigation.
Labels: OH, street robbery
10/3/08
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
From the Philadelphia Inquirer of September 29, 2008
Phila. police: Shooting was self-defense
City police are still investigating a weekend homicide in South Philadelphia and also have concluded their probe of a fatal shooting in a Southwest Philadelphia neighborhood that they found was in self-defense.
In the Southwest Philadelphia killing, a man in his 20s was fatally shot twice in the chest shortly after 1 a.m. yesterday in the 5100 block of Warrington Street near South 52d Street. Police spokeswoman Christine O'Brien said the man and a 17-year-old male accomplice were trying to rob two other men on the street, who shot them, O'Brien said.
The teen was shot twice in the left arm and was in custody in stable condition at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania last night.
Police did not release the identities of the two would-be robbers or of the pair they were trying to rob.
O'Brien called the shooting "a justifiable homicide" and said no charges would be filed.
Labels: minor offender, PA, street robbery
9/30/08
Nashville, Tennessee
From News Channel 5 of September 30, 2008
Homeowner Shoots And Kills 19-Year-Old In Self-Defense
Police said a homeowner shot in self-defense when armed suspects tried to rob him overnight.
Shortly before 10:30 p.m. Monday, 67-year-old Douglas Dabbs pulled into his driveway on Tobylynn Drive and was getting out of his pickup truck when two armed men came up to him and tried to rob him. The two men were identified as Nibeyu Demissew Yosef and Jermichael Jerome Burgy.
Armed with BB guns the two men demanded money from Dabbs. Dabbs said he reached into the console of his truck, retrieved a handgun that fires .410 shotgun rounds and opened fire on the two robbers.
Yosef, 19, was wounded and transported by ambulance to Southern Hills Medical Center where he died shortly after arriving.
Burgy, 23, took off after the shooting, but police later tracked him down at Southern Hills where he was recovering from a non-critical gunshot wound to the head. Police said that Burgy admitted to being with Yosef during the robbery attempt, so police charged him with attempted aggravated robbery.
Police also said that Dabbs does not have a handgun carrying permit, but no charges against the homeowner were anticipated.
Burgy has been lodged in lieu of $80,000 bond. A convicted felon, Burgy had previously been found guilty of aggravated assault in 2006 and has been on probation for that offense. Burgy also has convictions for unlawful gun possession and driving without a license.
Yosef had been issued a total of four state misdemeanor citations in 2007 and 2008 for driving without a valid license.
Police said they were looking into whether this overnight robbery may have been linked to other robberies in the area, or whether this robbery was a random or targeted attack.s
Labels: senior, street robbery, TN
9/5/08
Lufkin, Texas
From August 20, 2008 KTRE channel 9:
At 10:36 Sunday night, restaurant manager Katie Jeffreys left Catfish King with the night deposit after closing up.
Her boyfriend, Keith Labrozzi, had come to pick her up and their next stop was the bank. But they never made it. A robber surprised them with gunfire in the parking lot.
"Mr. Labrozzi had a concealed handgun permit and he was armed. He exchanged gunfire with the suspect. Mr. Labrozzi had several gunshot wounds and died a short time later at the hospital," says LT. David Young with the Lufkin Police.
Young says Labrozzi fired at the suspect, 19-year-old Brian Martin Womack of Hudson, hitting him in the stomach.
Katie Jeffreys was shot in the foot, but managed to crawl under her SUV and call 911 before trying to give her boyfriend CPR.
Labels: concealed carry permit, defender killed, street robbery, TX
8/28/08
East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania
From the Pocono Record of August 28, 2008
Alleged teen robber shot by Wal-Mart shopper
It's a night time shopper's nightmare. You buy groceries, go to your car, and someone tries to rob you at gunpoint.
Police say Joshua Eastman, 28, of East Stroudsburg was unloading groceries at his car shortly before 12:45 a.m. today when Reneau Jean Jacques, 17, of 77 Symphony Circle, East Stroudsburg, pointed a handgun at him and demanded that he hand over his money.
Eastman looked around for help or someone to yell to. The alleged robber continued to demand money. Eastman replied that he did not have any money - that he used a debit card to pay for his purchases.
Jacques became more threatening, pointing the gun and using a more menacing tone of voice.
Eastman then took out his wallet and pushed the door of his truck more open to put it between himself and the suspect. Jacques pointed his gun at Eastman's face.
Eastman dropped his wallet and started ducking down. Jacques fired a shot that went through the window of the door almost striking Eastman and causing flying glass from the car window to cut his face.
Eastman pulled out a handgun he was carrying and fell to the ground. He returned fire under the truck's door with his pistol while the teen continued to fire his weapon.
Eastman shot Jacques in the lower leg and foot. Then Eastman ran back toward the store as the teen fled towards Friendly's restaurant.
Jacques fled into a landscaped island of bushes and trees in the parking lot. Stroud Area Regional Police were on the scene almost immediately and found him hiding and trying to bury a handgun in the mulch. He originally claimed to be a victim before police determined he was likely the one who started the trouble.
"It appears to be an armed robbery that went badly for the suspect because he picked an armed customer," said Sgt. James Wielgus.
On Thursday afternoon, Jacques, using crutches and wearing a long hospital gown over hospital pants, sat with a numb look on his face during his preliminary arraignment in East Stroudsburg Magisterial District Judge Michael Muth’s courtroom. Jacques, a Shawnee Academy student with a prior juvenile record, spoke in a subdued tone when addressed by the judge.
Jacques is charged as an adult with attempted murder, robbery, aggravated assault, crimes committed with guns and illegal possession of a gun, all felonies, and reckless endangerment, a misdemeanor. He hung his head and sighed after the judge told him he could face up to 30 years in prison if convicted of the most serious charge, attempted murder.
Jacques was taken to Pocono Medical Center for treatment. Police detained two other youths for questioning. They were in a car, trying to flee the scene, according to witnesses and police.
Labels: concealed carry permit, minor offender, PA, street robbery
8/26/08
West Hempstead, NY
From the August 26, 2008 Newsday:
Two assailants picked on the wrong guy when they confronted a man exiting his car in his driveway in West Hempstead on Monday night, police said.
The 35-year-old homeowner, who owns a check-cashing business in the city, was armed -- carrying his licensed Glock 9-mm pistol.
When one of the assailants fired at the man, he fired back. No one was hit by the gunfire on Oakford Street before the pair fled.
Labels: concealed carry permit, NY, street robbery
8/13/08
Galion, Ohio
From NBC4 of August 13, 2008
Man Fights Would-Be Robbers In Ambush
A Galion man agreed to meet someone in Lancaster to buy some construction equipment, but it was all a set-up to a robbery.
The prospective customer was told to meet the seller on an area of desolate land in Lancaster to buy a Bobcat -- a type of construction equipment, NBC 4's Mike Bowersock reported.
Shortly after arriving, the man was walking across the field when someone approached him from the left, cursed at him and pointed a gun at him.
"There was a verbal agreement of $7,000 cash for the Bobcat and the (customer) showed up with the cash and found out it was actually a robbery -- ambush," said Sgt. Mike Peters, of Lancaster police.
But, the customer was prepared -- and had a concealed carry permit and two guns.
He unloaded one gun on the robbers and then started with the second gun.
The robbers returned fire, and it is believed that one of them was shot.
"He was in fear for his life. He felt that he was going to be shot and killed and he actually did pull his gun and shot several times at the robber," Peters said.
No arrests have been made, but a man with a gunshot wound at The Ohio State University Medical Center is a suspect.
Central Ohio Crime Stoppers told NBC 4 that taking large amounts of cash to someone unknown is never a good idea -- and customers should never go alone.
From the Lancaster Eagle Gazette of August 13, 2008
Shots fired at Lancaster quarry
Lancaster police are looking for a man who allegedly tried to rob another man during a business transaction in a quarry Tuesday.
Nathan R. Zeger, 27, of Galion, was meeting an individual to purchase a Bobcat around 3:50 p.m. Tuesday in the quarry in the 800 block of South Ewing Street, according to a Lancaster Police report.
There are no houses or businesses next to or across from the site.
As Zeger approached a white male dressed in black, another male wearing a black ski mask approached from Zeger's left and told Zeger to get down while pointing a black handgun at him.
Zeger dropped to the ground and pulled his .38 caliber handgun and shot six times at the male in the ski mask. The man in the ski mask fired three shots at Zeger in the exchange, according to the report.
Zeger has an Ohio Concealed Carry Weapon license. Zeger was not injured in the incident. The police report did not specify whether the man in the ski mask was injured in the exchange.
Zeger fled the quarry to South Ewing Street, where he was when Lancaster Police Detective E.L. Eggleston arrived at the scene. The detective's bureau did respond and the area was canvassed, according to the report.
Zeger said he saw the suspect leave the scene in a black Nissan type vehicle with an Ohio temporary tag on the rear "at a high rate of speed" heading southbound on South Ewing, according to the report. It did not detail what became of the man Zeger was meeting to purchase the Bobcat.
The Lancaster Police Detectives are working with the Hocking County Sheriff's Office, the Logan Police Department and the Ohio Bureau of Identification and Investigation to locate the suspect, the vehicle and the firearm.
If anyone has information about the incident, they are asked to call the Lancaster Police Department at 740-687-6680.
Labels: concealed carry permit, OH, street robbery
8/4/08
Jacksonville, Florida
From the Jacksonville Times-Union of August 4, 2008
Robber in critical condition after being shot by Jacksonville handyman
A man working on a home just north of Springfield this afternoon shot an armed man who tried to rob him, said Sgt. Derrick Lewis of the Sheriff’s Office.
The shooting occurred about 1:15 p.m. on West 24th Street near North Pearl Street. Police said a man armed with a gun approached the man working on a house and the worker, who was also armed, opened fire. The wounded man fled south on Pearl Street and collapsed outside a music store at West 23rd Street, a witness said.
The wounded man was taken to Shands Jacksonville hospital and listed in critical condition, Lewis said. The worker is being questioned by police, but has not been charged. Their identities have not been released. Police recovered both guns, Lewis said.
Lewis said the worker carried a gun because of his concerns about crime in the area, where shootings and drug deals are common.
A woman walking in the area said she heard about six shots and then saw a bloodied man run and collapse. She said she heard the worker say he shot the man after the man pulled a gun on him.
“He said, ‘He tried to rob me,’” the woman said.
The shooting occurred near the same intersection where a man was killed about two weeks ago after being struck by a police car that was on its way to a shots fired call.
Labels: FL, street robbery
8/3/08
Kansas City, Missouri
From the August 2, 2008 Kansas City Star:
A bank customer shot another man who apparently was attempting to rob him about 9 a.m. today, police said.
The alleged robber, who was wounded in the head, this afternoon is in stable condition, police said.
A man and a woman, described as an older couple, were using the ATM at the Bank of America at North Oak Trafficway and Barry Road, police said, when a man approached with a gun and robbed them.
A couple was stopped at the ATM.
The robber was walking away when the male victim got out of the car with his gun and yelled for him to stop, said Sgt. Chris Lantz of the department’s robbery unit.
The robber turned around and pointed his gun at the man, Lantz said. The robbery victim fired his gun, hitting the robber in the head, he said.
At the scene investigators earlier today investigators were collecting evidence from a dark sedan parked next to the ATM machine. An object that looked like a hand gun was lying on the pavement. Nearby were apparent blood stains.
The couple and witnesses were interviewed by police.
The man had a permit to carry a concealed gun, Lantz said. Under the circumstances, Lantz said, that would not matter, because he could legally carry the weapon in his car.
It is unusual where a robbery victim defends themselves with a fire arm.
“You don’t see that very often,” Lantz said.
Labels: concealed carry permit, KS, street robbery
7/31/08
Tallahassee, Florida
From the Tallahassee Democrat of July 30, 2008
Crawfordville business owner defended himself from would-be robbers
Two men tried to rob the owner of a Crawfordville business earlier this week, but the owner pulled out his gun and scared the would-be robbers away.
It happened about 7:45 p.m. Saturday at Premier Motorcar Gallery, 1468 Crawfordville Highway, according to the Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office.
The owner was exiting the front door of the business carrying a small bank bag and had turned around to lock it when one of the men ran up and hit him in the head with a 2-by-6 board.
The owner fell to the ground but was able to get a handgun out of his rear waistband and point it at the robber. Another man was running toward them, but the two turned around and ran to a waiting car when they saw the owner was armed.
The car was described as brown in color, 1984-1986, four-door Chevy Caprice with a lift-kit similar to the photo to the right. The car had 22- to 24-inch chrome rims with wide white walls and an aftermarket chrome grill kit.
The first would-be robber was described as a clean-shaven black man, 18-22 years old, 6 feet, with a thin build and short hair. He had a small notch shaved into his right eyebrow. He was wearing a long-sleeved blue FUBU shirt and Paco jeans.
Only a vague description was available for the second would-be robber.
Anyone with information can call Sgt. Scott DelBeato at 926-0878.
Labels: business robbery, FL, street robbery
7/25/08
Tacoma, Washington
From July 22, 2008 KING channel 5:
Diners at Pacific Grill, an upscale downtown Tacoma restaurant, were confronted by a man who was dining alone Monday evening.
According to Tacoma Police, the man sat down and ordered beer, then got up, went into a private dining area and demanded money from the diners.
He told them this was a robbery and demanded their wallets.
"He comes in the room and says, 'I want your wallet and your cash'," recalled Dr. Charles Weatherbee who was seated with fellow doctors and drug reps.
...
One of the doctors, who had been at target practice earlier, pulled out his gun and ordered the suspect out, saying, "Get out of the restaurant now!"
The suspect left and was greeted by police officers outside.
Tacoma Police spokesperson Mark Fulghum says the armed doctor acted within the law, defending himself and others during a crime.
The suspect is now undergoing a mental evaluation. He faces one robbery charge and several attempted robbery charges.
Labels: street robbery, WA
7/15/08
Newport News, Virginia
From the Daily Press of July 10, 2008
Potential victims turned tables on robbery suspects
An armed-robbery suspect was shot by his potential victim Tuesday, the second time in a week where the tables were quickly turned, police said.
Just after 3 p.m. Tuesday, a 16-year-old was shot in his upper right leg as he attempted to rob a man at gunpoint in the backyard of a 25th Street home, police spokesman Harold Eley said.
The teenager, whose name wasn't released by police because he's a juvenile, survived his injury and was released from a local hospital into police custody.
...
Eley said the juvenile shot at 3:10 p.m. Tuesday was attempting to rob a 31-year-old Virginia Beach man, who pulled out his own gun. The 16-year-old fled after being shot but was picked up by police on 25th Street.
After his release from the hospital, the teen was charged with robbery and use of a firearm in the commission of a felony.
Police also charged him with the July 6 robbery and carjacking of an 18-year-old Newport News man on Aqua Vista Drive. He's being held in the city's juvenile detention center.
"It is extremely dangerous for juveniles, or anyone else, to take part in armed robberies," Eley said. "There is always the possibility that the person being robbed is armed, and that was the case in this instance. Juveniles should not have weapons in the first place."
Eley said the man who shot the teen didn't have a permit to carry a concealed weapon. The gun was seized, but no charges were filed. Eley said the commonwealth's attorney would decide whether to prosecute the man on any firearms charges.
Labels: minor offender, street robbery, VA
7/7/08
Avondale, Arizona
From ABC15 of July 7, 2008
Avondale man shoots at armed robbers trying to take his baby
An Avondale man shot at armed robbers Saturday night when they tried to take his infant during a robbery, according to a police report released Monday.
The Avondale family had started to unload groceries at their home near Main Street and Litchfield Road when three men approached the car with guns and demanded money.
When the victim, 52, said he didn't have any cash, one robber said, "get the baby", according to Avondale Police Sergeant Memo Espinoza.
The victim pulled out a handgun and the three robbers started shooting at the man and the house. The father shot back.
The robbers ran away, and one was crawling on the ground as if he had been shot, according to Espinoza.
The victim and baby were not hurt in the shootout.
The three armed men left in a black SUV with chrome trim and chrome wheels.
They were described as Black males, between 19- and 25-years old.
One wore all black clothing, one had black pants and a brown shirt and the third wore blue shorts and a white shirt.
Avondale police notified Valley hospitals to look out for someone with a gunshot wound.
Another similar incident occurred Sunday at an Avondale family's home near Indian School Road and 107th Avenue.
Three men pulled into the family's garage and forced their way into the home rummaging through their belongings.
The family wasn't hurt, however their truck was stolen by one of the three suspects.
The truck was pulled over by police near the home and the man was taken into custody.
Espinosa said the two incidents are not related.
Anyone with information should call Avondale police at 623-333-7000.
Labels: AZ, kidnapping, street robbery
7/6/08
Jacksonville, Florida
From First Coast News of June 30, 2008
Would-be Victim Kills Arlington Robbery Suspect
The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office has identified the man shot to death at an Arlington apartment complex as Robert Pinkney, 20.
Investigators say they were called to the Summer Oak apartments around 11:46 Sunday night.
The apartments are located in the 5300 block of the Arlington Expressway.
Officials say when they arrived they found Pinkney shot dead in the parking lot.
According to police, a man who lives in the apartments says Pinkney tried to rob him. That's when he told police he pulled a gun and shot the would be robber.
The JSO says they are questioning several people at the apartment building.
The State Attorney's Office is investigating whether this was a case of self defense.
Labels: FL, street robbery
7/5/08
Austin, Texas
From KXAN of July 3, 2008
Austin woman shoots attacker in the face
An Austin woman credits her handgun and her own quick thinking with saving her life after she shot a man who was trying to attack her. Leonie Burgos said the man scaled a fence outside her apartment near Barton Skyway and South Lamar.
When Burgos saw the man jump the fence, she ran inside and grabbed her .38 caliber pistol. She went back outside to see if the man had left. She said that's when he attacked her by tackling her to the ground from behind.
Bergos said she shot the man only after trying to scare him with the gun first.
"First I tried to point it up in his face so that he would see that I had a gun so he would take off running," said Burgos. "But he didn't."
Burgos said the man continued to hold her down and the two struggled. She said she pulled the trigger three times and did not know if she hit the man. He ran away before police arrived.
Thirty minutes later, a man went to the emergency room at Brackenridge Hospital with a gunshot wound to the face. Hospital personnel called police. An arrest warrant said Christopher Benavides,20, told police he intended to steal the woman's cell phone and sell it for cash before he was shot.
Benavides had two warrants out for his arrest at the time of the attack for criminal trespass and criminal mischief. He now faces a charge of robbery by assault, as well. Burgos is not facing any charges.
Labels: female, street robbery, TX
6/19/08
Greenville, North Carolina
From June 17, 2008 WITN channel 7:
A pizza delivery driver fought back at a group of suspects who tried to rob him, pulling out a gun and wounding one of them.
Greenville Police say the incident happened early Monday morning at 1105 A Masters Lane when the Chanellos Pizza driver said three suspects began hitting him as he was delivering the pizzas. Police say the delivery driver then pulled out a gun and began to fire. One of the three robbery suspects was struck. Elvis Deans Junior, a 17 year-old student at South Central High School, is listed in stable but critical condition. He'll be charged with Common Law Robbery and Assault Inflicting Serious Injury.
Police also arrested 18 year-old Thomas James, 18 year-old Sunil Persaud, and 17 year old Kevin Haynie all of Greenville. They are charged with common law robbery. Police also say they charged a 14 year old who they say planned the crime.
The pizza delivery driver was taken to the hospital and was treated and released.
Labels: minor offender, NC, pizza delivery driver, street robbery
5/26/08
Houston, Texas
From the May 25, 2008 Houston Chronicle:
A roofer fatally shot a suspected robber Sunday, only minutes after the man shoved a pistol in his back in the parking lot of a southeast Houston town house complex.
Identified by his employer as Juan Ibarra, the roofer was hitching a trailer to his pickup about 9 a.m. when the suspected robber moved up behind him, police said.
Ibarra "was ordered to go around to the cab of the truck and give him his money," said Ramon Cervantes, a Houston police homicide detective.
The man grabbed Ibarra's wallet and cell phone, then began walking away. Police said he stopped after noticing that some cash had fallen to the pavement.
That's when Ibarra pulled out his revolver and fired at least three times, police said.
The man was struck in the left chest area and fell to the ground, police said. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Residents watched Sunday as police placed several evidence markers around the white Ford pickup.
"If it's a robber who got popped, that's his problem," said John Andre, who lives a couple of houses away.
Police said Ibarra has a license to carry a concealed handgun.
The suspected robber, 21, lived in the area, police said.
Labels: concealed carry permit, street robbery, TX
5/8/08
Boca Raton, Florida
From Local10 of May 8, 2008
Man Shot, Killed Would-Be RobberFrom the Miami Herald of May 8, 2008
No charges have been filed against a Boca Raton jeweler who shot and killed a would-be robber Wednesday afternoon.
Boca Raton police said four men smashed the windows of H&L Wholesale Jewelry storeowner Leon Rozio's sport utility vehicle at the Town Square Plaza. The SUV had more than $100,000 worth of jewelry in it.
Witnesses said Rozio shot and killed one of the men. The other three got away in a silver van.
Police said Rozio had a concealed weapons permit.
Anyone with information is asked to call police.
Robber fatally shot in Boca Raton jewelry heist
After Leon Rozio got robbed, he vowed never to let it happen again.
Three or four years ago, the 64-year-old owner of Miami-based H&L Wholesale Jewelry Inc. lost some $300,000 in gold and jewelry in a holdup, said his half-brother, Fernando Mirabal.
Soon after, Rozio started bringing a gun on his sales runs, which took him and his priceless jewelry to shops across South Florida.
About 12:45 p.m. Wednesday, not long after Rozio parked his red Ford Explorer outside St. Moritz Jewelers on Boca Raton's west side, four men screamed up behind him in a silver car, boxing him in. They surrounded the Explorer, smashing out all four windows to get at the jewelry inside, witnesses said.
''He opened up like I have never seen,'' said Greg Sanderson, manager of a nearby Omaha Steaks shop, who watched the shooting through the store's plate-glass windows. ``I couldn't believe it. It sounded like the Wild West out there.''
One of the men staggered from the car and ran west through the parking lot toward St. Andrew's Boulevard, Winter said.
Paramedics found the wounded robber bleeding in the car, said Fire Rescue spokesman Frank Correggio. The man was taken to Delray Medical Center, where he died soon after, officials said.
The three other men escaped in a silver van, triggering a manhunt. It wasn't clear whether any of them were wounded, or whether they made off with any gold or jewels, police said.
Investigators still were quizzing Rozio at the police station until about 7 p.m. Rozio's attorney, Bill Mathewman, said his client will not face charges.
Labels: concealed carry permit, FL, street robbery
4/14/08
Scottsboro, Alabama
From the The Huntsville Times of April 14, 2008
Would-be Scottsboro robber gets shot in stomach, hospitalized
A would-be thief was shot in the stomach as he tried to rob a man over the weekend and is recovering in Tennessee, where he fled after the incident in Scottsboro, police said Monday.
Scottsboro Police Chief Ralph Dawe said the suspect, whose name has not been released, tried to rob a man near Highlands Medical Center around 2 a.m. Saturday.
He said the robbery target pulled a gun and shot the suspect in the abdomen. The suspect then fled to Chattanooga, Tenn., where he is being treated at Erlanger Hospital.
Dave said there were outstanding arrest warrants for the man on first-degree robbery charges for a similar incident at a local Wal-Mart and he will be extradited back to Alabama when his medical condition improves.
He said the information compiled so far provides no reason to charge the person who shot the robbery suspect.
Dave said Tennessee authorities contacted their Alabama counterparts after the man gave differnt versions of how he ended up with the gunshot wound.
"He gave several stories, but all accounts of what happened involved Scottsboro, so they called us," Dawe said.
Labels: AL, street robbery
3/27/08
Milford Township, Ohio
From the Journal News of March 27, 2008
85-year-old opens fire on thugs
Raleigh Hensley's trip to "town" Tuesday ended with men taking his wallet with $5,500 and roughing him up, but the 85-year-old didn't give up his money without a fight and even shot at the fleeing car.
Butler County Sheriff's detectives announced today, March 27, they have the culprits, both of Hamilton, behind bars who allegedly robbed Hensley. They are Timothy Alfred, 44, of Millville Ave., charged with robbery and Mark Collins, 45, of Sunset Drive, charged with complicity to robbery.
Hensley, who has lived on Darrtown Road more than 50 years, said he went to Hamilton Tuesday afternoon, March 26, and stopped by a west side liquor store to purchase a "jug of wine."
"There were three or four guys around there," Hensley said. "They saw me pay with the money in my billfold. I tripped on the way out and one of them helped me up and asked if he could take me home."
Hensley laughed and told them he wasn't drinking and didn't need any help.
But the men apparently wanted to help themselves to his cash — all $5,500 of it.
"I didn't notice them following me home," Hensley said. "When I got out to get the mail, the red car sort of blocked me and they shoved me, trying to get my billfold. I told them, 'you ain't going to get it.'"
Eventually, the men were able to swipe the wallet and jumped back in the car speeding away toward McGonigle, Hensley said
"I got my gun and shot a couple times at the tires," Hensley said. He added he has been told him today he may have hit his mark. Butler County Detective Jason Rosser said a car believed to have been driven by the culprits has been located and is being processed. Hensley also tried to follow the getaway car, but lost them.
"I've never had any type of problem out here," Hensley said. "Still don't. They followed me home."
He added he usually does not carry thousands in cash, but had plans for the money they stole.
Labels: OH, senior, street robbery
3/3/08
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
From the Philadelphia Inquirer of March 2, 2008
Police: Taxi driver shoots passenger during attempted robbery
Police say a Pittsburgh cab driver fatally shot a passenger who allegedly tried to rob him.
Authorities say the shooting occurred Saturday night in the city's Hill District after the passenger had been picked up downtown.
During the robbery attempt, the Yellow Cab driver pulled out a gun and a struggle ensued over the weapon.
Police say the passenger was shot and killed during the struggle and the cab driver suffered an injury to his arm. The driver was taken to a hospital for medical treatment.
Police did not release the name of the driver or the passenger.
The driver was licensed to carry a gun.
Labels: concealed carry permit, PA, street robbery
2/21/08
Charlotte, North Carolina
From Charlotte Observer of February 21, 2008
Would-be robber shot at restaurant
A would-be robber had life-threatening injuries after being shot by his intended victim at a northern Charlotte restaurant late Wednesday, police said.
The suspect was taken to Carolinas Medical Center after the 9:20 p.m. shooting at Floyd's Homestyle Cooking restaurant on Graham Street. Some of his bloodied clothes were strewn in the parking lot of the restaurant. Nearby, two guns lay on a sidewalk.
Police haven't released an account of what happened during the shooting, but Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Spokesman Officer Hassan Peterson said the restaurant was closed when the first officers arrived.
Police interviewed the man working at the restaurant and homicide investigators planned to interview him again late Wednesday.
It was the second time in less than three months that someone working at a business shot a potential robber.
In December, a man shot a teenager who was trying to rob his west Charlotte convenience store.
On that day, two teens walked into the Bradford Food Mart demanding money and at least one of them was armed.
So was the store's owner.
The owner and one of the suspects fired their weapons, and one of the suspects was hit in the stomach. The owner wasn't hurt and the injured teen survived.
From WBTV of February 21, 2008
Would-Be Robber Shot
A suspected robber is in the hospital after police say he was shot by his intended victim.
It happened around 9:00 Wednesday night on North Graham Street in Charlotte.
Police say the gunman tried to rob a worker in the parking lot of Floyd's Restaurant.
That worker also had a gun and shot the gunman in the face.
Medic was called to the scene and took the gunman to the hospital with very serious injuries.
No word if any charges will be filed.
Labels: altercation, NC, street robbery
2/10/08
Watts, California
From ABC7 of February 10, 2008
Teen robber shot by intended victim
A teenager robber was shot and killed in Watts Saturday morning.
According to a police spokesperson, 17-year-old Joe Beck was hiding behind a pole in the 1200 block of East 140th Street, waiting to hold-up his intended victim.
Moments after approaching the victim, who was in his vehicle, Beck produced a gun and demanded money.
The victim--also armed--produced a weapon and shot the suspect in the chest. Beck later died at an area hospital.
Police are still investigating details of the shooting.
The intended victim's name has not been released.
Labels: CA, minor offender, street robbery
1/25/08
Houston, Texas
From the Houston Chronicle of January 25, 2008
Attempted robbery ends with shootout in north Houston
An attempted robbery outside a convenience store in north Houston on Friday afternoon ended in a shootout between the robber and his intended victim, police said.
Both men were taken to hospitals and described as stable with gunshot wounds to their torsos following the shooting in front of Handi Food Mart in the 500 block of Yorkshire.
According to police, the gunman approached the son of the store's owners in the parking lot and tried to rob him at gunpoint about 3:20 p.m.
But the intended victim managed to pull out his gun, said Sgt. Robert Odom of HPD's homicide division.
Several shots were fired and both men were wounded, Odom said.
The suspect was taken to Memorial Hermann-The Texas Medical Center while the intended victim was taken to Ben Taub General Hospital, where he was in surgery. The names of both men were withheld.
Residents living on street where the store is were shaken by the shooting.
When Mary Rogers drove home Friday afternoon to find police tape cordoning off The Handi Food Mart down the street, she felt tears well in her eyes.
"I was getting ready to start crying," said Rogers, 54. "I hate this happening because this neighborhood is basically quiet."
The little family-owned and operated store has been a neighborhood fixture for years, she said. The store owners have a large brood of grown children, many of whom help out at the store, Rogers said.
"Most of the people here know them," Rogers said. "They're just as sweet as they can be. Always give people credit when they need it."
"They help everybody out and they know everybody pretty much by name," agreed Debra Sanchez, who lives across the street from the Handi Food Mart. Her 16-year-old son was inside the store getting quarters to do the laundry when the shooting happened.
"Man this is just too close to home, you know?" Sanchez said, shivering in the cold as daylight began to fade.
Labels: defender shot, street robbery, TX
1/18/08
Orlando, Florida
From the Orlando Sentinel of January 18, 2008
Orlando victim turns gun on 4 robbers
An armed citizen surprised four men who robbed him at gunpoint last week.
After being ordered to his knees, Russel Olofson warned the men that "they should think about it," according to an Orlando police report released this week.
A private investigator with military training, Olofson, 24, told police the robbers snatched his cell phone and a wallet containing his concealed-weapon permit shortly before 10 p.m. Friday outside Ridge Club Apartments.
After the robbers took his items, Olofson stood up, drew his Springfield XD sub-compact 9 mm handgun "and fired two rounds toward male #1 with the silver handgun, possibly striking him," the report states. "Males #2, #3, and #4 then ran southeast . . . and male #1 ran northeast . . ."
A search by police quickly turned up a pistol likely used in the holdup, the report said.
The .45-caliber Ruger pistol and clothing believed to have been worn by male 1 were found in the backyard of a home on Alrix Drive, reports state. The serial numbers on the pistol had been scratched off, a common sign the weapon may have been stolen.
The cell phone and wallet were not recovered. The wallet contained an Iraq Embassy badge, an Army contractor's ID card, Olofson's drivers license and a credit card. Anyone who finds the wallet or knows the identities of the robbers is asked to call Crimeline at 407-423-8477.
Olofson, who had been conducting an investigation for Briggs Corp. Solutions, was not injured. A check by police of area hospitals did not find any reports of patients treated for gunshot wounds.
Labels: concealed carry permit, FL, street robbery
1/9/08
Charlotte, North Carolina
From January 9, 2008 Charlotte channel 14:
CHARLOTTE -- A pizza delivery man fought back after an attempted robbery late Tuesday night in east Charlotte.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg police say the man was delivering pizza around 9 p.m. to an address at the Greenbrier apartments off Sharon Amity Road, near Eastland Mall.When the customer tried to rob him, police say the delivery man fired shots then reported the incident. The victim was lying on the grass when police and paramedics arrived. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
This marks the fourth homicide in Charlotte through the first eight days of the year.
“Only eight days into the year and already this is our fourth homicide," said CMPD Officer Bob Fey. "It’s troubling and it’s definitely a concern."
Police have not said if the delivery man will face charges. They have not released the name of the person killed at this time.
Labels: NC, pizza delivery driver, street robbery
Orlando, Florida
From January 8, 2008 Orlando channel 6:
ORLANDO, Fla. -- A 52-year-old man fired shots at three men after he was robbed at gunpoint in the driveway of his Orlando home, police said.
The armed robbery took place Monday on Gumwood Court in Orlando.
According to an Orlando police report, the victim pulled into his driveway after cashing a check at a local check-cashing store. Three men approached the man and stole his cash before fleeing in a car, Orlando police said.
The victim fired shots at the getaway car, but it is not known if any of the assailants were struck.
Two of the culprits were described only as in their 20s and the other man was in his 30s, according to the police report.
Orlando police detectives recovered shell casings and confiscated the victim's gun.
Labels: FL, street robbery
1/2/08
Langeloth, Pennsylvania
From the Pittsburgh Channel of January 2, 2008
Charges Dropped Against Man Who Shot Would-Be Robber
A would-be victim who fought back during an attempted robbery at his East Third Street home in Langeloth, Washington County, is no longer charged with attempted homicide.
On Sept. 1, Eraldo Iannitelli, 48, was allegedly attacked outside his home by two teens wearing masks, carrying a baseball bat and BB gun.
Iannitelli said the two teens demanded money.
After being hit several times, Iannitelli said he reached into his car, grabbed a shotgun and fired once, hitting a 16-year-old in the back.
On Wednesday, all charges were dropped against Iannitelli.
Labels: minor offender, PA, street robbery
12/31/07
Orlando, Florida
From December 27, 2007 WKMG channel 6:
ORLANDO, Fla. -- A Central Florida man who collects cash for parking at a church fought off five armed men who had ambushed him and demanded cash.
The 65-year-old victim, who did not want to be identified, said he was collecting cash in the Parramore area before an Orlando Magic basketball game when someone put a gun to his head.
He noticed that that he was surrounded by four other men as well.
The man said he pretended to reach into his jacket for cash but instead pulled out his hidden gun and opened fire.
The men fled during the shooting and it was not known if any of them were hit by bullets.
The victim said he had a permit for the concealed weapon.
He said he has been a victim of crime before.
"A couple of years ago, eight teens attacked me with a pipe trying to rob me," the man said.
Labels: concealed carry permit, FL, senior, street robbery
12/28/07
St. Louis, Missouri
From the December 28, 2007 St. Louis Post-Dispatch:
A Domino’s pizza deliveryman who shot and killed a would-be robber in Pagedale has a valid permit to carry a weapon and appears to have acted in self-defense, according to St. Louis County police.UPDATE: The January 3, 2008 St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that the driver quit rather than be fired by Domino's for carrying a gun.
The driver, who works for the Domino’s franchise nearby in University City, delivered an order at 7 p.m. Thursday to a phony address in the 6500 block of Julian Avenue, where two armed men announced a robbery. The driver pulled his own pistol and fired shots, striking one of the robbers.
Brian Smith, 19, of the 600 block of Ferguson Avenue in Ferguson, was pronounced dead at the scene, said officer Tracy Panus, the department spokeswoman. The other gunman fled. Police arrested a suspect this afternoon and booked him pending application of warrants, she said.
Panus said the driver may have been fired upon, but was not wounded. She said officers found a pistol at the scene that hadn’t been fired.
The driver surrendered his own weapon and showed officers a concealed-carry permit from Florida. Panus said officers verified the permit this afternoon.
Panus said Prosecuting Attorney Bob McCulloch’s office will review the police reports but added, "It doesn’t appear to us that (the driver) did anything wrong."
Labels: concealed carry permit, MO, pizza delivery driver, street robbery
12/21/07
Tulsa, Oklahoma
From the December 21, 2007 Tulsa World:
A man was shot in the leg Thursday after exchanging gunfire with someone who apparently was trying to rob his brother.
The man who was shot went to a hospital, but his injury was not life-threatening, Officer Leland Ashley said.
The shots were fired just before 11 a.m. after a man who was fixing a flat tire outside his home in the area of 5900 E. 30th St. was approached by two men, one of whom pointed a gun at his back, Ashley said. He started yelling at the men, and his cousin and his brother -- who was armed with a gun -- came outside the house to help him.
Shots were exchanged, and the man's brother was shot in the leg, Ashley said. The assailants then ran away.
Police are searching for the two men, whose descriptions were not available. They also are continuing to investigate who fired the first shots and how many shots were fired.
Labels: OK, street robbery
12/18/07
Phoenix, Arizona
From AZCentral of December 17, 2007
Man turns tables on thief, wrestles gun away
A man turned the tables on a gunman Saturday by wrestling a rifle from him, turning it around and firing.
Police said the pistol-grip shotgun either misfired or was empty, and the robber and an accomplice ran off.
The incident began about 5 p.m. Saturday on the side of the Ross clothing store building near Power Road and Southern Avenue. The victim was seated in his car when two men in their late teens or early 20s pulled their car alongside and parked. They approached the victim on foot, showed the gun and demanded money. The victim struggled with the man and was able to get the gun from him and fire it. The second thief helped get the gun back and they took some items from the vehicle before fleeing.
The robbers' vehicle was described as a dirty white four-door sedan, possibly a Crown Victoria or a Mercury.
Labels: AZ, criminal's gun taken away and used against him, street robbery
12/16/07
Greensboro, North Carolina
From the Greensboro News Record of December 16, 2007
Store worker returns fire during attempted robbery
A store worker returned fire after someone fired shots during an attempted robbery Saturday night, police said.
The employee, who was not identified, was closing Andy's Pantry at 1301 Grove St. and was walking to his car when someone approached him from the south side of the business, according to Greensboro police.
The employee told police the man opened fire at him with a handgun.
The worker returned fire with his own handgun. The man then ran away.
Police described him as black, 20 to 25 years old, medium to dark skin, and 5 feet 5 to 5 feet 7 inches tall. He had a slender build and was wearing a black bomber jacket with orange lining and a fur collar, black jeans and a black T-shirt. He had white Nike Air Force One tennis shoes.
The employee was not injured. It's unknown whether the would-be robber was injured, police said.
Labels: NC, street robbery
12/9/07
Hialeah Gardens, Florida
From CBS4 of December 8, 2007
Man Turns On Would-Be Robbers, Kills One
Four robbers get more than they bargain for when they target an elderly Hialeah Gardens man. Police said he shot and killed one of them while he was being attacked.
Police said 74-year-old, Jorge Leonton was not aware he was being followed from the bank to his home along Northwest 91st Avenue and 119th Street.
"I feel horrible, my body is still shaking," said Margarita Leonton, who is still shaken up on Saturday, after police said 4 armed men attacked her husband. "I never thought that this could happen especially at 10:30 in the morning."
Jorge Leonton was questioned by police after they said he drove to a nearby bank, withdrew cash, and began driving back home. On Saturday night he is back at home with his wife.
Little did he know, four men were following from behind, when he arrived home, and got out of his car police said one of the thugs put him in a chokehold position and demanded money he had just withdrawn from the ATM.
"He came to me with such great force, he was so violent and started to choke me," said Jorge Leonton. He said he told the robber to let go, Leonton has a conceal weapon permit.
"I took out my gun and told him, let me go or I'm going to shoot you, because I have a heart condition," said Leonton. "I can't breath, you can't grab me by the neck, because I'll die, I told him that 3 times."
The alleged robber refused to let go and Leonton shot him in a torso. "My vision became blurry and that's when I shot him," said Leonton.
The other three crooks drove away. Jorge told CBS4's Shomari Stone he didn't want to shoot him, but he had to because his life was in jeopardy. "It's bad I didn't want to shoot a human being, he is a human being regardless."
Paramedics lifted the wounded suspect to Ryder Trauma Center where he later died.
Margarita said her husband's gun saved his life. "If he wouldn't been armed, I think he would have been killed," she said.
They are searching for the other 3 suspects who got away.
Labels: concealed carry permit, FL, senior, street robbery
12/6/07
Easton, Pennsylvania
From the December 6, 2007 Easton Daily Call:
Rob Pierce Jr.'s walk through Easton's West Ward for dinner at his fiancee's mother's house Tuesday almost cost him his life.
He was mugged by two men, one a self-proclaimed Crips gang member, the other wearing a hooded jacket and carrying a handgun, police said.
''It was like hell,'' Pierce, 27, of Easton said Wednesday night in a brief phone interview.
While being told to be quiet and cooperate, he was dragged across the street in the darkness and told he was going to be shot. But in an instant, the hunted became the hunter.
Pierce, who carries a handgun for protection, pulled out a .357 revolver and shot Maurice Cook of Easton, who had thrust a .45 handgun into Pierce's back and the side of his head.
Cook, 22, who was shot in the abdomen, was taken to St. Luke's Hospital-Fountain Hill, where he underwent surgery and was expected to survive, police said.
He and the other mugging suspect, Tyrone Wright, 22, of Newark, N.J., were charged Wednesday with robbery, aggravated assault and conspiracy. Wright told a district judge he was recently freed from a New Jersey prison, where he had been held on a drug charge.
Northampton County District Attorney John Morganelli said the good guy won in a botched armed robbery. But at a news conference Wednesday, he also cautioned against a return to the vigilante days of the Wild West.
He said Pierce violated no law by protecting himself and will face no charges. ''Luckily, this time, the citizen won. I think Mr. Pierce acted responsibly.''
Morganelli said he supports laws that allow people to carry concealed weapons and hopes this latest shooting in the West Ward, the second in less than a week, sends a message to ''these young thugs'' that their victims might fight back.
Labels: concealed carry permit, PA, street robbery
11/26/07
Douglasville, Georgia
From Atlanta’s CBS46.com of November 26, 2007
Arbor Place Mall Reopens After Shootings
A Brinks employee and a suspected robber were shot as two men tried to rob a Brinks Security truck outside a shopping mall in west Georgia.
Douglasville police chief Joe Whisenant told CNN that at least one suspect fired shots at the Brinks employee as he was leaving the mall with money. Whisenant said the employee returned fire, hitting one of the suspects.
Both the guard and the suspect are recovering in Atlanta hospitals. Whisenant told CNN both are expected to survive, but the suspect was in worse shape than the Brinks employee.
"It was a lot of shots, like nine," witness Leigh Knight told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. "After about the fourth one, we figured out what it was and we threw the kids under the table and we laid down on top of them. I saw a Brinks man laying face up, he was conscious. There was another man next to him laying face down."
A store owner told the newspaper that police SWAT team members roamed the mall with guns drawn.
The mall is a stand-alone mall in the suburb of Douglasville, which is west of Atlanta.
The mall was locked down after the shootings, but it has reopened.
Labels: defender shot, GA, private security, street robbery
Charlotte, North Carolina
From the Charlotte Observer of November 26, 2007
Robbery victim shoots suspect
Police say it was a robbery attempt gone bad Sunday night in east Charlotte, and they say a would-be suspect is hospitalized as a result.
The incident happened about 11:20 p.m. in the parking lot of the McDonalds restaurant on Albemarle Road at Farm Pond Lane.
According to police, two armed men confronted another man in the parking lot and tried to rob him. The would-be victim, however, pulled out a gun and shot one of the suspects in the stomach. Police say the victim then ran off.
The wounded suspect was taken by MEDIC to Carolinas Medical Center with wounds that police say are not life-threatening. Robbery detectives are investigating the case.
Labels: NC, street robbery
11/23/07
Kansas City, Missouri
From the Kansas City Star of November 23, 2007
Would-be Westport robber shot
A would-be robber remained hospitalized in critical condition this afternoon after he was shot by one of his intended victims.
The man was shot about 1:30 a.m. after he followed several people to their car in a Westport parking garage in the 4000 block of Pennsylvania Avenue.
As the people were getting into their car, the man, who had earlier asked them for money, pulled up his shirt and revealed a gun in his waistband, Kansas City police said.
One of the car’s occupants retrieved his own gun from inside the vehicle and fired.
Police later determined that the wounded man was carrying a BB gun.
Labels: MO, street robbery
11/21/07
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
• From Shreveport’s ArkLaTexHomePage.com of November 21, 2007
Police: Shooter Apparently Justified In Fatal Shooting Of 14-Year-Old Boy
Baton Rouge Police say a man they have yet to locate was apparently justified in the Wednesday morning fatal shooting of 14-year-old Da'Vonte Reed.
The teenager was shot when he allegedly attempted to rob the victim near the intersection of Charles and Mission.
His body was later dumped onto North Sherwood Drive by the driver of the car, 17-year-old Demarcus Alexander, who was wounded by the gunfire.
Sergeant Don Kelly says police have charged Alexander with first-degree murder, quote, "because he was involved in the commission of an armed robbery where someone died." He says the actual shooter is believed to have fired his weapon in self-defense and will not face any criminal charges.
Labels: LA, street robbery
11/7/07
Orlando, Florida
From the Orlando Sentinel of November 7, 2007
Orlando victims scare off armed robbers with own guns
They draw permitted concealed weapons when suspect shoots
Two holders of concealed-weapons permits surprised armed thugs who approached them in west Orlando this week.
Both men opened fire rather than surrender their wallets. The robbers beat it.
"They left with broken egos. They didn't get nothing from us," Juan Amezaga said Tuesday. "If more people stood up for themselves, a lot of crime could be prevented. And the concealed-weapons permit, that's great."
The men say they exercised their constitutional right to own guns, carried them legally and defended themselves within the state's deadly force law.
"If it's appropriate, people have to defend themselves," said Sgt. Barbara Jones, Orlando police spokeswoman. "It's no different from us using a gun. It has to be justified, and we will, of course, investigate what happened."
The gunfight erupted at 6:10 p.m. Monday near Clear Lake, according to a police report on the incident.
Amezaga, 25, and Stephen Soto, 23, were enjoying the fall weather outside Soto's apartment on South Wilts Circle when two strangers walked by them two or three times. Thinking that was suspicious behavior, Amezaga and Soto took notice when both strangers walked up to Amezaga's parked car, where the men were standing.
"What time is it?" one of the strangers asked.
Soto looked down at his watch and said, "It is 6:10." Raising his head, Soto heard the stranger say, "Hey, run them," as the man drew a black snub-nose revolver from the pouch in his sweat shirt.
As Soto pulled a 9 mm Keltec pistol from his right front pants pocket, he heard the robber's gunfire and felt a bullet graze his left shin, breaking the skin. Still standing, Soto fired two or three times before both robbers turned and ran, the report states.
"They tried to rob me and my homeboy," Soto said in a telephone interview Tuesday. "Man, put it like this: If I didn't have a concealed-weapons permit, it would have been a lot worse."
When the robbers fled, one stopped, turned and fired an unknown number of shots.
Soto shot back and fired two to three more times, and Amezaga drew his .357 Magnum Sig Sauer pistol and fired eight or nine times at the robbers. Crime-scene technicians later collected 15 shell casings ejected by both of the men's handguns, the report said.
Both men were unsure whether they hit either robber. Police did not determine where the 15 bullets fired by the men struck in the neighborhood.
(More)
Labels: concealed carry permit, FL, street robbery
11/5/07
Houston, Texas
From November 2, 2007 KTRK channel 13:
(11/02/07 - KTRK/HOUSTON) - A suspected purse snatcher didn't know what he was in for when he picked a woman in a Home Depot parking lot for a victim. As soon as he grabbed her purse, the woman's husband grabbed a shotgun and opened fire.
It happened at the Home Depot on the Eastex Freeway near Little York. With as much activity during business hours there, you never know who may be waiting in the wings, night or day, ready to strike.
"I was just standing here and the guy just came up and pushed me real hard with a force, like it was a car that hit me. And he was just yanking my purse and my arm got twisted up in my purse and he just was just yanking it," said victim Sandra Hulsey.
Sandra may have looked like an easy target standing there as her husband, Norman, loaded wood into the couple's pickup truck. It turned out the suspect who shoved Sandra and tried to steal her purse didn't know who he was messing with.
"I had a board in my hand right here and I thought he was going to beg for money...is what I thought," said Norman. "He grabbed her and I already had that door open so I just grabbed my shotgun."
He fired a shot.
"The sound of the shotgun and that dude burning off -- it was funny," said eyewitness Freddy Butler.
Butler chased after the accused purse snatcher. who took off running and ended up asking a police officer for help.
"He displays a weapon and it scares the suspect," said a deputy on the scene. "The suspect runs up the police car and saying, 'Let me in. They are shooting at me'."
Police took the suspect into custody.
Labels: street robbery, TX
