Houston, Texas, July 28, 2024
A middle school teacher rushed out of his apartment with his pistol and sprang into action after he heard a young girl yelling for help. By confronting and scaring off the attacker, the good Samaritan saved the 15-year-old girl from being sexually assaulted.
A Houston-area middle school teacher is being hailed as a hero for springing into action to save a young girl who was being attacked by a man in east Houston…
Anayeli Ruiz and Cory McCord, “’I’m 15, help me!’ | Good Samaritan pulls gun on man accused of sexually assaulting teen in Houston,” KHOU, August 7, 2024.
Harris County Sheriff’s Office investigators said it happened just before midnight on July 28. They said a 15-year-old girl was followed by a man when she got off a METRO bus near an apartment complex on Woodforest Boulevard just north of I-10 between Normandy Street and Uvalde Road on Houston’s east side.
David Garza said he didn’t think twice when he heard cries for help that night.
“I looked out the window and I saw a man beating up a woman on the ground … trying to take her clothes off,” he said.
He said he grabbed his gun and knew exactly what he had to do. Video caught the moment Garza jumped out of his apartment to help.
“I ran outside, asked what’s going on. The girl screamed, ‘I’m 15, help me!’ I pointed the gun at him and told him to get off her,” Garza said.
He said the suspect had her by the hair.
“He took his hands off right away. He went chasing after her, I went chasing after him and she got away,” he said…
Marble Falls, Texas, July 23, 2024
A tense situation at a Verizon store in Marble Falls was defused when two armed customers, who were legally carrying firearms, drew their pistols and took action to subdue the knife-wielding suspect.
According to Marble Falls Police Capt. Jimmy Cole, at round 2 p.m. Tuesday, Jones demanded he be allowed to enter the back of the store. He drew a knife when staff refused. The Verizon location is at 2600 U.S. 281, next door to Cinergy Cinemas…
Dakota Morrissiey, “80-year-old man arrested for knife threat at Marble Falls store,” DailyTrib.com, July 24, 2024.
The two armed customers were able to subdue Jones after showing their firearms and directing him to the ground. Marble Falls police officers and Burnet County sheriff’s deputies arrived within one to two minutes after being called, according to Cole.
No injuries were reported in the incident…
Seattle, Washington, July 21, 2024
The assault, involving a man and a pregnant woman who are in a relationship, began in a car in the parking lot. The woman escaped the car and ran into the park asking for help. An armed good Samaritan shot the suspect once in the hip while shielding and protecting the pregnant woman as the suspect advanced on them.
Seattle police said an armed good Samaritan saved a pregnant woman. The Seattle Police Department (SPD) reported he came to the rescue of the woman during a domestic violence incident and shot her attacker. It happened Sunday morning at about 10:30 at West Seattle’s Lincoln Park.
West Seattle Police, “FOLLOWUP: Man who shot domestic-violence suspect at Lincoln Park released from custody,” West Seattle Blog, July 22, 2024.
“An adult male witness, that was armed with a gun, he intervened on an in-progress domestic violence assault of a pregnant woman inside a vehicle,” SPD Officer Eric Munoz said.
Police said the woman managed to get out of the vehicle. The man shielded her from her attacker and tried to retreat while protecting the pregnant woman as the suspect kept moving toward them.
“The armed male retreated approximately 40 or 50 yards into the park, telling the suspect to basically back away and stop pursuing them,” Officer Munoz said. “Ultimately, the male shot the suspect while he was protecting the felony DV victim. And this woman was four months pregnant at the time.”
The suspect was shot once in the hip and taken to the hospital. He’s alive and is expected to be charged with Felony domestic violence assault, reported police.
SPD said the woman was not seriously injured. The good Samaritan waited for police to arrive and is said to be cooperating.
James Lynch, “SPD: Armed good Samaritan saves pregnant woman from attacker,” KIRO Newsradio 97.3 FM, July 22, 2024.
Louisville, Kentucky, June 29, 2024
Two armed suspects had attempted to rob the Game X Change but were thwarted by an armed customer who was walking by, noted their unusual attire, saw the robbery in progress, and shot both of them. One of the suspects later died from gunshot wounds. According to the manager of a nearby business, the gaming store has been the target of robbery at least 4 times.
On June 29, police responded to a double shooting at a business in the 8800 block of Dixie Highway. Inside, they found 25-year-old Ronny Walker Jr. and another man shot. Walker died before he could be taken to the hospital…
Samantha Murray, Julia Huffman and Logan Perrone, “25-year-old killed in double shooting inside Dixie Highway Game X Change identified,” WAVE 3, July 9, 2024.
The manager of the Game X Change told WAVE News that the shooting happened during an attempted robbery.
“We had two guys come in here both with guns trying to rob two of our employees that were up here [the counter], attempted to get into the safe,” he said. “A customer who was walking by came in, saw what was happening, and shot both of them.”…
The manager said the employees involved weren’t hurt.
Amarillo, Texas, June 23, 2024
Witnessing a woman thrown from a vehicle, the bystanders who intervened were shot at by a man in the vehicle. One of the witnesses then returned fire and the man fled the scene.
On Sunday at 4:19 p.m., Amarillo Police Department officers were called to the 3400 block of S. Georgia for a shooting at the Dollar Tree.
Jamie Burch and Matthew Watkins, “Burglary suspect shot, killed during officer-involved shooting,” ABC 7 Amarillo, June 24, 2024.
Witnesses said a female was thrown from a vehicle. When they intervened, a man in the vehicle fired shots at the witness.
A witness then returned fire and the man fled the scene in the vehicle…
Nashville, Tennessee, June 22, 2024
Two men were trying to steal two cases of beer from a gas station convenience store. An employee followed them into the parking lot to retrieve the stolen beer. It was at this point that the suspects allegedly assaulted the employee, prompting a customer to intervene and shoot one of the suspects in the arm.
Metro police said officers with the Hermitage Precinct responded to reports of a shooting at a Shell gas station located in the 1500 block of Lebanon Pike at around 10:30 p.m. Saturday, June 22. When officers arrived, they found a 26-year-old man – who had been shot in the forearm – walking down the street…
Ethan Illers, “Man shot in arm while trying to steal beer from gas station,” WKRN.com, June 24, 2024.
Police said a gas station employee told detectives that the man who was shot was trying to steal two cases of beer along with another man, prompting the employee to follow the two men to the parking lot to try and get the beer back. That’s when the men allegedly assaulted the employee, causing a customer to try and intervene.
The customer reportedly had a gun and tired to hit the 26-year-old man with it. The gun then went off and hit the 26-year-old man in the arm, according to police. The customer with the gun then left the store…
Stanton, California, June 2, 2024
An armed rideshare driver was dropping off a passenger when he witnessed a naked man brutally beating a 60-year-old woman nearby. The driver took immediate action by firing a warning shot, but the naked suspect charged at the vehicle and beat the window. The rideshare driver then shot and wounded the suspect.
Turan Sanders was dropping off a passenger nearby when he noticed the man running toward the woman by the dumpster area of a condo community in Stanton just before 8 p.m. Sunday.
Hetty Chang and Raymond Mesa, “Rideshare driver shoots man who was brutally attacking a woman in Orange County,” NBC Los Angeles, June 3, 2024.
The driver took immediate action and fired off a warning shot, which didn’t stop the man from attacking the 60-year-old woman.
“This female was defenseless. He began to like brutally beat her — he was kneeing her — slamming her head against the ground,” said Sanders.
The man then charged at Sander’s vehicle and proceeded to hit the glass repeatedly.
“I recognized he wasn’t going to stop. I took aim and I dropped him,” said Sanders.
The bullet hit the man on the neck and Sanders called 911 right away…
Investigators questioned Sanders but later released him. He said he has no regrets about what he did…
Ormond Beach, Florida, June 1, 2024
A good Samaritan prevented a tragic situation by stepping in to help a man fend off an alleged carjacker. He saw what was happening and intervened, drawing his gun on the suspect and prompting her to stop. The good Samaritan put the gun away when he realized the suspect was unarmed but stayed near until the police arrived.
A man is being hailed a “hero” and “good Samaritan” by Ormond Beach Police for helping an elderly couple who were fighting a woman attempting to steal their car…
Molly Reed, “‘Good Samaritan’ holds attempted carjacker at gunpoint in Ormond Beach, police say,” Clickorlando.com, June 3, 2024.
Police said the attempted carjacking happened at the Exxon on US-1 just off the interstate in Ormond Beach. The couple told police they pulled into the gas station, parked in a spot, and that’s when the carjacking suspect, Marvette Perry, jumped in their car.
McDaniel saw it all happening and jumped in to help…
When he noticed the woman, later identified as Perry, acting strangely near them, McDaniel said he started getting his gun out of its case. That’s when he saw the couple park their car and Perry sprint towards them…
The police said Perry jumped into the driver’s seat and tried to take the car from the couple while the wife was still in it. The husband grabbed Perry’s leg to stop her from leaving with the car.
McDaniel said he kept his gun on Perry until he realized she was unarmed, and another bystander called 911. He said the entire situation moved quickly…
Body camera video showed police getting on the scene and arresting Perry…
Memphis, Tennessee, February 25, 2024
A pastor was hit in the jaw by a bullet after a carjacking at the New Zionfield Baptist Church in South Memphis. A bystander, who was outside the church when this happened, reportedly fired shots back at the suspects after the pastor was shot.
Officers responded to the shooting at 1865 Rile Street at 9:13 a.m. Police say the man was located and transported to Regional One Hospital in critical condition.
A member of the church says the pastor, identified as 70-year-old Clemmie Livingston Jr., was shot while attempting to stop two men from stealing a Sunday school teacher’s car…
A second person, who was outside of the church, reportedly fired shots back at the suspects after Livingston was shot…
Megan Fayard and Quametra Wilborn, “Pastor shot, critically injured at South Memphis church,” WREG, February 26, 2024.
Surprise, Arizona, February 11, 2024
A man was arguing with another vehicle at a Taco Bell drive-thru when he pointed a gun at the occupants. Another person in the drive-thru line pulled out his own firearm and struck the man “multiple times.”
Around 1:30 a.m. Sunday, police were called to the fast food restaurant near Prasada Parkway and Waddell Road, near Loop 303, after reports of a person with a gun. Police say that 24-year-old Adrian Garduno was in his vehicle in the drive-thru when an argument broke out with two others in a separate vehicle. As the argument escalated, Garduno got out of his vehicle, pulled a gun and pointed it at the other people, according to police. That’s when a man in the other vehicle shot Garduno multiple times.
The shooting happened while officers were still en route, and Garduno was later pronounced dead at the scene. Police say the man who shot Garduno stayed on the scene and cooperated with the investigation. He was later released without any charges…
Kit Silavong, “Man shot dead at Surprise Taco Bell drew gun first, police say,” Arizona’s Family, February 12, 2024.
Fort Worth, Texas, February 7, 2024
A witness shot and killed one of the dogs after a group of three dogs reportedly bit one individual and were trying to attack others.
Police responded to a call on South Creek Drive at around 1 a.m.
Witnesses told officers that a group of three dogs had bit one individual and were trying to attack others.
A person who saw what was happening, and shot and killed one of the dogs, according to police.
That person called police and cooperated with investigators. The shooter is not expected to be charged…
FOX 4 Staff, “Dog shot and killed by witness after attack, Fort Worth police say,” FOX 4 KDFW, February 7, 2024.
Houston, Texas, January 27, 2024
A couple were attacked and robbed by an armed suspect while refueling. A witness parked nearby intervened by shooting the suspect at least twice in the upper torso.
According to police, a male suspect approached a man and his girlfriend at the pumps at the “Zip In Zip Out” Chevron Gas Station located at 11095 Ella Blvd. Police say the suspect pistol-whipped the man at the gas station and demanded his wallet.
After investigating, police found out that a bystander, unrelated to the victim or the suspect, witnessed the robbery and shot the suspect. The shooter then instructed the robbery victim to retrieve what the suspect had taken before leaving the scene…
The robbery suspect later died after being taken to the hospital in critical condition…
Houston police say the shooter later called and met with HPD detectives to provide a statement. He was released after detectives contacted the Harris County District Attorney’s Office. Officials say the shooting investigation would be presented to a grand jury…
FOX 26 Digital and Jade Flury, “Houston crime: One dead in shooting at Zip In Zip Out gas station on Ella Boulevard,” FOX 26 Houston, January 27, 2024.
Chicago, Illinois, January 22, 2024
An armed robbery of a restaurant was thwarted by a concealed carry license holder who shot at the robber. The suspect fled the scene but was later arrested after a traffic crash.
A concealed carry holder shot at an armed robber who held up a Taco Burrito King restaurant Monday night in the Cragin neighborhood.
A 17-year-old armed with a gun entered the restaurant, located at 5413 W. Belmont Avenue, around 9:35 p.m. and demanded money from the register, according to police. The clerk complied but the teen was confronted by a licensed concealed carry holder who shot at him as he fled the restaurant…
Will Hager, “CCL holder shoots at armed robber who held up Taco Burrito King,” FOX 32 Chicago, January 23, 2024.
Hammond, Louisiana, January 7, 2024
The suspect stabbed a woman in the neck after getting into a verbal argument and choking her inside of her vehicle. The victim cried for help and a neighbor broke up the altercation by coming outside with a gun. The suspect then fled the scene.
According to HPD, on Jan. 7 around 2 a.m., officers responded to a domestic disturbance where a female was reported as sustaining a stab wound to the neck.
Upon arrival, HPD officers found the victim near the steps of the residence holding her bleeding neck. Officers learned that Hoskins, 46, had engaged in a verbal argument that turned physical as Hoskins allegedly began choking the victim inside her vehicle, police said.
During the struggle, the victim escaped through the passenger side door. Then, according to HPD, Hoskins attacked her with a kitchen knife.
The victim grabbed the knife, which caused a laceration to her palm, and threw it away from their location. Police reported that Hoskins allegedly started to choke her again while saying she was going to die.
A neighbor heard the screams for help and came outside with his gun, which appeared to convince Hoskins to flee the scene in the victim’s vehicle. The vehicle was later found in Livingston Parish…
The Daily Star Staff, “Hammond man wanted on attempted murder,” The Daily Star, January 12, 2024.
South Bend, Indiana, December 21, 2023
The suspect entered the gas station with a handgun and was attempting to rob it at gunpoint. As the suspect got into a struggle with the clerk, an armed concerned citizen discharged his firearm, striking the suspect. The South Bend Police Department has determined the shooting was a justifiable homicide, according to Indiana law.
The South Bend Police Department says the deadly shooting of man at a gas station on South Bend’s west side early Thursday morning was ruled a justifiable homicide by the St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office.
Police were called around 12:50 a.m. to the Phillips 66 gas station in the 4000 block of W. Western Avenue on reports of a robbery. When they arrived, they found a man, identified as 24-year-old Glen Brooks, suffering from gunshot wounds. Brooks was pronounced dead at the scene.
Witnesses told police that Brooks entered the gas station with a handgun and was attempting to rob it at gunpoint. He then reportedly got into a struggle with the clerk.
That’s when police say an armed concerned citizen decided to intervene on behalf of the clerk and fired his gun. Brooks was hit by the gunfire and ran away from the gas station, but police say he collapsed a short distance away…
WNDU.com Staff, “Deadly shooting of suspected robber at South Bend gas station ruled justifiable,” WNDU.com, December 21, 2023.
Commerce City, Colorado, December 12, 2023
A legally armed good Samaritan saved the life of a woman who drove into a construction site after her adult son allegedly threw her to the ground, poured gasoline on her, and attempted to light her on fire. The good Samaritan, who has a gun license, intervened, confronted the son, and held him at gunpoint until police arrived.
The events took place off Tower Road in the Reunion neighborhood in Commerce City, according to the Commerce City Police Department.
Ashton Miller was working at the job site and jumped into action when he saw the physical altercation. As a legally armed citizen, he held the suspect at gunpoint until Commerce City officers arrived.
Miller’s actions allowed the gas-soaked woman to escape without injury, although the events were still traumatic.
FOX31’s Jim Hooley was the first reporter on the scene, and he spoke to witnesses working in the area. They told Hooley a Lexus sped into the area before coming to an abrupt stop and a woman jumped out of the driver’s side while a man jumped out of the passenger’s side.
Witnesses said the man ran to the woman, grabbed her and threw her on the ground, where he tried to light her on fire with a lighter.
The suspect, who has not been identified, was placed in the Adams County Jail on a $100,000 bond facing attempted first-degree murder and first-degree assault charges.
Heather Willard, “Good Samaritan saves driver’s life when passenger tried to light her on fire,” KDVR, December 19, 2023.
Sanford, Maine, December 1, 2023
The owner of a local food truck shot and injured a man in self-defense after the man wielded a knife at motorists and threatened to kill people ahead of a holiday parade in the New England town.
Police responded to the corner of Main and Lebanon streets just before 4 p.m. on Dec. 1, after witnesses said a man had been walking in the roadway, yelling at vehicles and carrying a knife…
Poto said he witnessed the unidentified man wielding a knife at motorists and threatening to kill them. He initially confronted the man without showing him he was holding a concealed firearm behind his leg, Poto told the Portsmouth Herald…
The food truck owner said he tried to calm the man and get him to sit down, but that the suspect continued walking toward Poto, even when the business owner pulled out his firearm…
When Schaffer was within lunging distance, Poto aimed the gun at his legs and fired. He said his goal was to stop the man, not kill him.
Gagne said there are currently no charges pending against Poto.
Emma Colton, “Armed food truck owner shoots knife-wielding man menacing motorists: cops,” FOX News, December 10, 2023.
Gillian Graham, “Sanford police charge man accused of waving knife downtown,” Portland Press Herald, December 12, 2023.
Shelby, North Carolina, November 6, 2023
A legally armed female bystander stepped in and defended the injured victim who had allegedly just been shot in the face by an attacker.
The Shelby Police Department said at about 6 p.m. last Monday, a man identified as Unterio M. Jolly, 33, got into a verbal altercation with another man along Smith Street in Shelby, the Shelby Star reported.
Capt. Seth Treadway said the two men eventually went their separate ways, but about 30 minutes later, Jolly reportedly tracked down the other man and confronted him with a gun.
Jolly then allegedly shot the other man in the face, police said…
The unnamed bystander then stepped in to defend the injured man, police said.
“Right after he does that… a concerned citizen shoots back trying to protect (the man) and hits Jolly about five times. She shoots him five times,” Treadway told the outlet.
The woman was legally armed and had a concealed carry permit, police said…
Jolly was found to be the aggressor and is now facing charges of felony assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, inflicting serious injury, firearm by a felon and assault by pointing a gun.
“We will consult with the District Attorney’s Office later in the day to see if those charges need to stay the same,” Treadway said. “I do not expect any charges on the person that returned fire.”…
Emma Colton, “Armed woman steps in to defend man shot in the face from aggressor,” FOX News, November 13, 2023.
Spartanburg, South Carolina, October 24, 2023
An employee and two customers held a shoplifting suspect at gunpoint when he refused to put the items back, pulled out a box cutter, and stated he would cut people.
According to the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded at 7:18 p.m. to Family Dollar located at 460 Spring Street in reference to a disturbance with weapons.
Once deputies arrived at the scene, they came in contact with a man who had his gun drawn at the front entrance of the store.
He told deputies that a man, later identified as 56-year-old Karim Hudani was on the other side of the door in possession of a knife and was trying to cut people…
He was charged with three counts of first-degree assault and battery, armed robbery, and possession of a weapon during a violent crime and taken to the Spartanburg County Detention Center.
Bethany Fowler, “Employee, customers hold shoplifting suspect with box cutter at gunpoint at Upstate store,” WSPA, October 25, 2023.
Birmingham, Alabama, October 23, 2023
The suspect allegedly shot and killed a woman in front of their young children and then left the area. One of the children flagged down a couple for help, but before deputies arrived, the suspect returned to the scene. One of the Good Samaritans was armed and held the suspect at gunpoint until deputies arrived to take him into custody.
A couple in Alabama helped save children from a murder suspect who shot and killed their mother.
Bria Chatman and Gray News staff, “Alabama couple apprehend murder suspect who killed a mother, help children until police arrive,” KKTV, October 26, 2023.
The couple, who wanted to remain anonymous, told WBRC they were traveling along Huffman Road in Birmingham Tuesday when they noticed a little girl looking distressed and calling for help…
Officials say before law enforcement arrived, the husband and wife said they tried to console the victim’s daughter and son. The wife said Peavy returned to the scene, and she says he acted as though nothing ever happened.
“She said ‘You killed my mama,’” adds the woman. “‘You killed my mama. I saw you kill my mama.’ The little girl said, ‘Please don’t let him kill me.’ I said baby, ‘Don’t worry about it. I’ll take a bullet today, but I won’t let him hurt you. You’re safe now.’”
She says she couldn’t understand why the suspect came back, but she and her husband weren’t going to let him leave.
“He tried to get in the car to leave, and my husband told him ‘No sir, you’re not going anywhere. You only have two choices, and that’s jail or hell.’ He held him at gunpoint until the police got there.”
Eugene, Oregon, October 21, 2023
A “Free Palestine” rally in Eugene, Oregon, was driven into by a masked counter-protestor, who blocked the protest march with his truck and began firing several shots with a “splatter ball gun.” Two lawfully armed members of the march drew their weapons and detained him before the police took him into custody.
On Oct. 21, over 200 community members came together for a “Free Palestine Rally and March” that started at the Federal Building. The march started about an hour later after a few speeches on the courthouse steps.
A half hour into the march, as the crowd walked south on Pearl Ave, a white GMC Sierra 2500 pickup truck sporting multiple right-wing flags—including the Gadsden—suddenly pulled into the intersection of E. 8th Ave. and Pearl St., blocking the march. As the march approached, a tire was a reportedly slashed, and the driver, wearing a Guy Fawkes-type mask, pulled a handgun as he exited the truck. He quickly turned to the rear and began firing several shots that sounded like compressed-air.
Two individuals within the march rushed to the front, drew their own handguns, and ordered the man to immediately drop his weapon and take off his mask to which he complied. After doing so, he took his mask off. As the two individuals kicked the now-unmasked man’s weapon away, Eugene police officers rushed-in with weapons drawn…
James Croxton and Robert Scherle, “Masked Counter-Protester Arrested After Stopping, Shooting At ‘Free Palestine Rally and March’ in Eugene,” Double Sided Media, October 21, 2023.
Wake Forest, North Carolina, October 21, 2023
A Good Samaritan with a concealed carry permit intervened during a domestic-related altercation in the parking lot of a grocery store. The armed citizen fired back after the suspect began shooting, causing him to leave the scene.
Around 9 p.m. Saturday, Sherri, who preferred not to give her last name, said she was in the parking lot of a Wake Forest shopping center on Capital Boulevard with her husband Mirza Zukanovic and their 16-month-old son when they got into an argument.
“He got angry, jumped in the driver seat,” she said. “I have a concealed carry; he took my gun.”
She says her husband fired that gun, and she could only think about protecting her son. “I grabbed him and bear-hugged him and just ran,” she said.
She screamed for help.
Police say a man with a concealed carry permit grabbed his gun and fired a shot at Zukanovic.
“I think that scared him enough, and that’s why he took my car and left,” said Sherri…
Maggie Newland, “Man accused of shooting at wife, baby in Wake Forest parking lot; wife grateful for bystander who fired back,” CBS 17, October 23, 2023.
Riverside, California, September 20, 2023
An armed patron at a massage business fended off two would-be robbers, firing shots at the two suspects who attempted to rob employees and customers.
The incident happened shortly before 10 p.m. at E-Joy Foot And Body Massage, according to Riverside Police Department.
The customer opened fire after two men broke in and tried to rob the establishment, police said. Authorities initially identified the shooter as an employee.
The two robbers, at least one of whom was armed and dropped his gun, fled the scene. The suspect who was hurt ended up in the parking lot of a nearby Northgate Market, where he was taken into custody by police officers and transported to a hospital. The other suspect managed to get away…
Police said the customer’s gun was legally registered, and that the district attorney will investigate the shooting…
“Just like when you’re inside your own home or a business, if harm’s way comes to you, you do have a right to defend yourself if you or others are at risk of serious bodily harm or even death,” Officer Ryan Railsback, spokesman for the Police Department, said…
Rob McMillan, “Customer shoots, critically wounds suspect during attempted robbery at massage business in Riverside,” KABC, September 21, 2023.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida, September 13, 2023
Two suspects reportedly approached a Family Dollar store, pistol-whipped the employee, and tried to steal a stack of cash. A neighboring business owner in the shopping center heard the disturbance and stepped in. He drew his own gun and ordered the armed suspect to drop the weapon. Although one of the two suspects escaped, the armed Good Samaritan held the other suspect at gunpoint until police arrived.
According to Fort Lauderdale police, the suspect’s ill-fated attempt at a cash grab happened at around 10 p.m. Wednesday at the Family Dollar at 1939 NW Ninth Ave., in the city’s Lauderdale Manors neighborhood.
Police said Nicolas Richard Lee Deas, 20, of Fort Lauderdale, and another man walked up as the employee was closing the store and Deas claimed he left his cellphone inside so the employee opened the door to try and help him.
The employee’s kind gesture would turn out to be a mistake, according to an arrest report, as Deas pointed a stolen gun at the worker and told him, “Give me the money or I will kill you.”
Police said the employee took the pair to the safe and Deas’ accomplice filled the bag with about $1,200. The report states Deas pistol-whipped the worker in the back of the neck and in the elbow.
A man closing his own business in the shopping center said he heard the commotion at the nearby Family Dollar and went in, the report states.
Police said the business owner saw Deas with a gun in his hand, took out his own gun and ordered the suspect to drop his weapon and get on the ground, which he did. The other suspect got away, however.
The report states the business owner kept Deas on the ground until officers arrived and arrested him…
Chris Gothner, “Armed witness intervenes in Fort Lauderdale Family Dollar robbery, police say,” Local10.com, September 15, 2023.
Alpharetta, Georgia, September 10, 2023
The suspect tried to rob the manager at gunpoint in the parking lot of a metro Atlanta Zaxby’s but was thwarted by an armed bystander. The Good Samaritan stepped in and shot the suspect.
It was closing time on Sunday night. Police say as the manager was leaving, an armed man approached him in the parking lot and tried to rob him.
“An independent witness observed the robbery in process, and intervened in the robbery, and shot the suspect after the suspect pointed his firearm at the witness and the victim,” said Alpharetta Police Lt. Andrew Splawn…
Police say the bystander with the gun will not be charged.
“Georgia law allows a person to use reasonable force to protect themselves or a third party when they believe an individual or themselves is going to suffer serious bodily harm or death,” said Lt. Splawn. “We do believe this is going to be a defensive third-party incident, so at this time we don’t anticipate any charges for the witness.”
“I’m glad he was here and was able to stop him. People do stupid stuff, and there’s consequences,” said Angie Trapino, another Zaxby’s customer…
Denise Dillon and FOX 5 Atlanta Digital Team, “Attempted armed robbery in Alpharetta thwarted by armed bystander,” FOX 5 Atlanta, September 11, 2023.
Centerville, Texas, August 14, 2023
The suspect was assaulting an elderly man and knocking him unconscious in a restaurant bathroom when a Licensed to Carry Holder attempted to intervene. The Good Samaritan then himself became the target before he fired two shots, with one of them hitting the suspect in the arm. After being shot, the suspect fled the scene in his car but was later arrested and charged with several criminal offenses.
The Leon County Sheriff’s Office originally received a 9-1-1 call at approximately 12:04 p.m. on August 14 from Woody’s Smokehouse #2, located at 947 W Saint Mary’s Street in Centerville. The call was in reference to shots being fired inside of the business…
Matt McGovern, “Assault suspect shot by good Samaritan,” FOX 44 News, August 28, 2023.
According to Sheriff Ellis, Anderson aggressively approached several customers inside the store and proceeded to walk into the bathroom. A subsequent investigation revealed that once inside of the bathroom, Anderson started assaulting an elderly man and knocked him unconscious onto the tile floor and continued assaulting him.
Sheriff Ellis says a Licensed to Carry Holder attempted to intervene the assault on the unconscious victim. The Licensed to Carry Holder was then assaulted by Anderson, knocking him to the floor and continuing to assault him.
It was at this time that the Licensed to Carry Holder fired two rounds, striking Anderson once in the right arm. Anderson then fled from the bathroom, left the business and fled the scene in his vehicle…
Cocoa, Florida, August 1, 2023
A football coach saw the suspect violently assault his ex-girlfriend in the parking lot near a youth football practice. When the suspect went and grabbed a gun from his car, the coach intervened to defend the woman. There was an exchange of gunfire and the suspect fled. Police said the coach isn’t facing any charges as he acted in self-defense and in the defense of others.
Cocoa police believe they have a suspect identified after a shootout between a coach and a man not far from a children’s football practice Tuesday…
Hayley Crombleholme, “Cocoa police: Fight between man, ex-girlfriend led to shootout near children’s football practice,” WESH, August 3, 2023.
Cocoa police said the coach intervened when things got physical between a woman and her ex-boyfriend.
They say the ex went and grabbed a gun from his car.
“And began to shoot at the witness who was trying to intervene,” public information officer Yvonne Martinez said. “That witness then also retrieved a firearm from his vehicle and there was an exchange of gunfire.”
Police say the suspect got away. The coach was grazed by a bullet but not seriously hurt…
Police say the coach that was involved isn’t facing any charges and was deemed to be acting in self-defense.
Cassopolis, Michigan, July 27, 2023
A valid Michigan concealed pistol license holder stopped a suspected armed robber by pulling out his handgun and shooting the suspected robber in the face, arm, and back. Then the Good Samaritan held the suspect at gunpoint until police arrived.
An attempted armed robbery at a gas station in Cassopolis was halted by a customer who shot the suspect, according to police.
Officers were called just before 10 p.m. Thursday to the Stone Lake Marathon Gas Station in the 200 block of S. Broadway Street. When they arrived, they found a male who had been shot several times and another male holding him at gun point.
Investigators believe the man who had been shot tried to rob the store’s clerk, but was shot by a customer who had a valid Michigan concealed pistol license…
16 News Now Staff, “Suspect shot by customer while allegedly trying to rob Cassopolis gas station,” 16 News Now, July 28, 2023.
Dallas, Texas, July 22, 2023
A suspect was shot by an armed bystander who saw him assaulting a female early Saturday morning.
This happened just after 2 a.m., in the 2400 block of Hillburn Drive.
Investigators found that Alfonso Delgado Morales, was arguing with a female, and he started hitting her.
Another man saw Morales assaulting the female, and police said he shot Morales…
FOX 4 Staff, “Man shot by another man while assaulting woman, Dallas police say,” FOX 4 News, July 22, 2023.
Waco, Texas, July 15, 2023
A Good Samaritan came to the aid of three women pleading for help in one of the rooms at the Hotel Indigo around 3 a.m. While trying to de-escalate the situation by getting the suspect out of the room, the suspect assaulted the good Samaritan, prompting him to fire a single shot that struck the suspect and killed him.
A man is dead after police say a bystander shot and killed him when he heard three women calling for help inside a room at Hotel Indigo on 211 Clay Ave. The shooter cooperated with police and was not arrested.
Police say it started around 3 a.m. when a man staying at the hotel heard people yelling for help in the hallway.
He found a room where a man was in a fight with three women. Police say in a press release, the bystander tried to help, but it upset the “original aggressor”.
The original aggressor attacked the bystander, which prompted the bystander to fire one shot at the original aggressor…
Megan Boyd, “New Details: Man shoots, kills aggressor attacking three women in hotel,” KWTX, July 15, 2023.
Long Beach, California, June 24, 2023
The suspect, who did not live in the neighborhood, was allegedly following people home and pounding on doors. An armed neighbor eventually intervened as the suspect was attacking another woman in the area, dragging her out of the vehicle. The neighbor is believed to have fired his weapon when the suspect began charging toward him.
A Long Beach homeowner allegedly shot and killed a woman who was attacking a neighbor.
Police believe the woman, 44-year-old Andrea Powell, was walking up and down the street in the 600 block of Roycroft Avenue trying to enter homes, screaming and confronting people…
A resident says Powell charged at him after he tried to stop her from attacking a neighbor in front of his house…
The resident who shot Powell has since been questioned and released by police…
Christina Gonzalez and FOX 11 Digital Team, “Woman seen attacking Long Beach neighbors shot dead by homeowner,” FOX 11 Los Angeles, June 25, 2023.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, June 14, 2023
A 30-year-old woman and her 2-year-old daughter were caught in the middle of a gun battle in the city’s Olney neighborhood. Someone else, possibly more than one person from the block, who had permits to carry guns, returned fire in defense of the victims.
Philadelphia police are investigating a double shooting that left a mother and her daughter injured on Wednesday night.
Officers say it happened around 8 p.m. on the 100 block of East Albanus Street in the city’s Olney neighborhood…
Officers believe the victims were caught in the crossfire of a shootout between two groups…
Sources tell Action News that a neighbor with a gun permit fired back at the suspect in defense of the victims. That person was brought in to talk with police as part of the investigation…
6abc Digital Staff and Bryanna Gallagher, “Mother, 2-year-old daughter caught in crossfire of Philadelphia shooting: Police,” 6 ABC, June 15, 2023.
Chicago, Illinois, May 24, 2023
A retired Chicago police officer saw his neighbor getting carjacked in the South Austin neighborhood. When the carjacker began firing at his neighbor, he exchanged gunfire with the offender.
The incident happened around 1:45 a.m. Wednesday in the 300 block of North Mayfield.
Police said the 78-year-old former officer witnessed a 52-year-old neighbor being carjacked and attempted to intervene. The offender fired at the retired CPD officer, who then returned fire. Police said the 78-year-old suffered a graze wound to the thumb.
The offender attempted to flee in the neighbor’s Jeep but crashed into a parked vehicle in the 600 block of North Waller, according to police. The suspect then fled the scene…The former officer was transported to a local area hospital in good condition. The 52-year-old neighbor was not injured…
Glenn Marshall, Marisa Rodriguez, and Dana Rebik, “Retired Chicago officer shot while attempting to stop carjacking on West Side,” WGN-TV, May 24, 2023.
Bryans Road, Maryland, May 8, 2023
A neighbor, who was out walking his dog at the time, had encountered a domestic violence situation and intervened to help the woman involved. When the suspect “continued walking aggressively” toward the neighbor, he pulled out his legally permitted gun and shot the suspect.
Charles County detectives say a neighbor shot 30-year-old Carl Braxton Monday on Sedgemore Place in the town of Bryans Road.
Aimee Cho and Sophia Barnes, “DC Firefighter Fatally Shot After Assaulting Girlfriend in Maryland: Sheriff,” NBC Washington, May 9, 2023.
Braxton, an eight-year veteran of DC Fire and EMS, had assaulted his girlfriend inside their home in Bryans Road, the Charles County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement.
She ran outside and found a man walking his dog in the neighborhood.
Braxton approached the man and threatened to hurt him, according to the sheriff’s office.
That man shot Braxton as he continued to walk “aggressively” toward him, the sheriff’s office said.
The man who shot Braxton was taken to a police station and later released. He didn’t previously know Braxton, the sheriff’s office said.
Detectives said he has a permit to carry a firearm. Authorities have not released his name…
Union City, Georgia, February 18, 2023
A Union City neighbor, who has been hailed as a good Samaritan, heard screams and jumped in to thwart a knife-wielding suspect during a deadly stabbing attack against three women at an apartment complex. The good Samaritan shot the suspect with a lawfully-owned handgun.
Union City Police are praising a neighbor they say stopped a man who stabbed three women early Saturday morning…
Kim Leoffler, “Union City neighbor shoots man he witnessed stabbing woman,” FOX 5 Atlanta, February 18, 2023.
Police said it turned out that two women had already been attacked, and Dobbs would just happen to step outside when the suspect began to stab a third victim…
“As the male subject was assaulting these female subjects with the knife, an onlooker saw the assault taking place,” Cpt. Brooks said. “He stepped up and stopped the threat. He did shoot the suspect.”
Police said one of the women died after the stabbing.
“We actually commend him for what he did and stepping up,” the captain added…
Clarksville, Tennessee, January 28, 2023
An Army veteran who has a concealed carry permit stepped in and fired at the suspects who he witnessed shooting at a victim. He then retreated back to the store and told employees to call 911.
An Army veteran put himself in harm’s way to protect himself and the victim of the Jan. 28 Dodge’s gas station shooting when he pulled out a Glock and fired at the suspects…
Jordan Renfro, “Dodge’s shooting: Armed bystander shot 2 suspects who killed man at Clarksville gas station,” Clarksvillenow.com, February 15, 2023.
On the morning of Jan. 28, Clarksville Police responded to a shots fired call at Dodge’s, 1504 Fort Campbell Blvd., where Jarlen Corbin, 29, was found with multiple gunshot wounds. Based on surveillance footage, officers believed there would be more victims…
During the preliminary hearing on Tuesday, the bystander told the court he had stopped at the gas station that morning to fill up his tank and grab a breakfast biscuit. He said he has a concealed carry permit and kept a licensed Glock 43x on his person.
As the veteran walked back to his vehicle, three people opened fire, shooting at Corbin, who had just returned to his vehicle at the gas pumps. The veteran said he quickly reacted by withdrawing his pistol and firing four to five rounds each at two of the shooters. He said he could tell he hit them as they scrambled back to their vehicles and drove away before he retreated back to the store and told employees to call 911…
Utica, New York, January 14, 2023
An armed customer stopped the suspect who allegedly sliced an employee’s face with a steak knife at Applebee’s.
New Hartford police were alerted to reports of a fight involving a knife and a handgun at an Applebee’s on Commercial Drive, at about 6:42 p.m. on Saturday, January 14…
“While staff was attempting to gain control of the situation, one staff member suffered a laceration to his face from Padron swinging the knife at him. A second Applebee’s staff member involved also sustained a non-life-threatening injury.”
Police said an Applebee’s customer who was carrying a legally-owned handgun saw Padron had a knife and had attempted to harm people.
The New Hartford police spokesperson added: “This citizen intervened by drawing his handgun and giving Padron commands to stay on the ground and let go of the knife. Padron discarded the knife and stayed on the ground until New Hartford Police Officers arrived on the scene and took Padron into custody.”…
Anders Anglesey, “Gun-wielding Applebee’s Customer Helps Arrest Man Who Slashed Worker: Cops,” Newsweek, January 16, 2023.
Ellijay, Georgia, January 9, 2023
Three customers who were legally carrying concealed guns stopped an armed panty-clad robbery suspect at an Ellijay gas station.
Just before 6:30 p.m., a man walked into the Ideal Mart at 31 Old Northcutt Rd. pretending to be a customer buying an energy drink, according to police. As he walked up to the register, police said that he pulled up a pair of underwear he had on his neck to cover his face.
Reeves Jackson, “Police: 3 customers carrying concealed pistols subdue armed robbery suspect at Ellijay gas station,” 11 Alive, January 11, 2023.
He then walked behind the counter and took out what police described as a .45 caliber pistol and held it to the head of the gas station clerk. The suspect demanded the clerk to give him all of the money, according to a statement from Ellijay Police.
A customer inside the gas station then pulled out a pistol, he was legally carrying, and helped intervene during the attempted armed robbery, police said. A second customer went to his car, grabbed his pistol, and went back inside to help the first customer subdue the suspect.
As the suspect was attempting to leave after the two men had their guns drawn, a third customer who was at a gas station pump, came inside with his gun to help the other two customers, according to police.
After they unarmed the suspect, the first customer ordered the other two to not shoot the man, police said…
The man is being charged with armed robbery, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. They are both being held in the Gilmer County Adult Detention Center without bond.
Indianapolis, Indiana, January 8, 2023
When the suspect attempted to steal a woman’s car with her kids still inside, an armed bystander intervened, shot, and killed the suspect.
It happened at a gas station on Indianapolis’ south side last weekend…
Logan Gay, “Man who shot alleged attempted carjacker on Indy’s south side tells story,” WTHR, January 14, 2023.
Reports said what Abrams was actually seeing was a man trying to carjack a woman named Courtney Hall. Her four kids were in the car and she was trying to fight off the thief and prevent him from taking the car. Once Abrams noticed the man had a gun, he said he instantly reacted and got the man’s attention by yelling at him to stop…
He said it all happened fast. He didn’t think things would escalate that far but felt he had no other choice. After he shot the man, Abrams said he immediately checked on him and moved the other gun, then checked on Hall and saw that she had been shot both arms. That’s when she told him she had kids in the car. He said he still has flashbacks of seeing their faces in the car…
Pensacola, Florida, January 4, 2023
The suspect “began acting strange” as two women were walking into a bingo hall in Pensacola. He then allegedly hit one woman in the head with a gun before shooting at both women. The sheriff’s office said it was the efforts of two bystanders who pulled their own guns and held the suspect until police arrived.
On Jan. 4, deputies said they responded to Bingo Paradise on Mobile Hwy., in reference to a shots fired complaint. Deputies said numerous calls were received that a white male, wearing a gray jacket and blue jeans, was shooting at people in front of the business…
Christopher Lugo, “Shooting at Bingo Paradise: Citizens hold alleged suspect at gunpoint,” WKRG, January 5, 2023.
According to the arrest report, the victim and her friend began to walk inside to get her mother, at which time Wilkerson and the other female began “acting strange.” The victim said at that time the woman started attacking her. The victim said that is when Wilkerson removed a small handgun from his right side, took the firearm and hit her in the left side of her head. One of the victim’s said Wilkerson then pointed the firearm at her and the other victim and began shooting towards them. According to the arrest report, one of the victims ran inside the business and the other went back to her vehicle and left the business. According to the victim inside the business, she heard more shots being fired as she entered the business.
Deputies said they spoke with a witness who was inside the business calling out bingo numbers. The witness said he heard a commotion outside, at which time he turned around and saw Wilkerson pull a firearm from his pants and begin shooting. The witness said he told everyone in the building to get on the ground. According to the arrest report, two minutes later, Wilkerson came into the business and then two citizens pulled concealed weapons and held Wilkerson at gun point until deputies arrived…
Dallas, TX, December 30, 2022
An eyewitness said a good Samaritan in a nearby car shot the alleged suspect during an attempted carjacking at a busy shopping center. Meanwhile, another bystander, who has a permit to carry, pulled his gun and prepared to protect other customers in a restaurant close to the scene.
An attempted carjacking rattled nerves at a crowded shopping center on the edge of the Park Cities Friday night.
It was just before 6:30 that witnesses dining in Odelay near the Dallas North Tollway and Lovers Lane say several shots rang out…
Gleason, who has a permit to carry, said he pulled his gun as others fled towards the kitchen or dove under dining tables.
Outside, Dallas Police say three suspects attempted to carjack a man witnesses say had just left the restaurant.
Witnesses say another person, who police haven’t identified, shot one suspect…
Allie Spillyards, “Attempted Carjacking Turned Shooting Rattles Diners in Busy Shopping Center,” NBCDFW, December 30, 2022.
Buffalo, NY, December 26, 2022
In Buffalo blizzard, an armed good Samaritan chased a would-be looter out of a local business by firing a gun into the air, defending his neighborhood.
A Buffalo looter made off with nothing but his life after a man took up arms to defend his neighborhood.
The ransacker had tried to break into one of the Pine Hill storefronts on Bailey Avenue when the civil soldier chased the would-be thief away, according to shocking video posted on Twitter Monday.
The clips show a group of people, some carrying brooms and sticks, running through the Skys the Limit Hair & Beauty parking lot after the looter.
People can then be heard screaming as they realize one of the men is carrying a gun…
He fires off two shots at an off-camera target…
“That was one of the neighbors that probably had business in the area,” the manager, who asked to remain anonymous, speculated.
“As far as I know, he shot in the air to scare them off. Because I guess he was sick of them breaking into one of the businesses across the street or something. He just don’t want them to break anything anymore.”…
At least nine people have been busted for looting stores across the city during the monster snowstorm that struck over the holiday weekend, the Buffalo Police Department said…
Katherine Donlevy, “Video shows local opening fire on looter in Buffalo blizzard,” New York Post, December 28, 2022.
Elkrun Township, OH, December 17, 2022
The suspect began ramming the pickup truck of a passerby who stopped to assist the suspect’s girlfriend asking for help after a domestic dispute. When the suspect pulled a gun on the people in the vehicle, gunfire was exchanged, leaving the suspect dead.
McLaughlin said the incident began as a domestic when Harris started beating on a 49-year-old woman in his Jeep while traveling on Bell Road. She exited the vehicle and was walking along the road when the bystander was almost to his residence and stopped to see if she needed help. She wanted a ride home, so he dropped off his child to his wife at his residence and pulled out of his driveway to take the woman home when another vehicle rammed him…
The Sheriff says the Jeep began ramming the pickup truck until it was run off the road into a wooded area, and both men pulled guns and exchanged gunfire.
Deputies say Harris fired shots first, with the passerby returning fire, hitting Harris in the torso multiple times, killing him. The driver of the pickup truck wasn’t injured.
At this time, deputies say no charges are expected to be filed against the passerby due to the act being viewed as self-defense…
Mary Ann Greier, “Shooting described as self-defense,” Morning Journal, December 21, 2022.
Mike Gauntner and Zach Mosca, “UPDATE: Deputies believe shooting in Elkrun Township was self-defense, no charges expected,” WFMJ, December 19, 2022
St. Louis, MO, November 2, 2022
A woman was moving out of her home when her neighbor allegedly shot her. An armed passerby came to her aid by firing warning shots and providing first aid. After that, the suspect locked himself inside his home and was arrested after an hours-long standoff.
Around 11 a.m. neighbors said they heard several rounds of gunshots and then heard a woman screaming. Police confirmed the woman’s downstairs neighbor shot her in the leg. He then barricaded himself in his unit forcing the SWAT team and negotiators to come out…
Ward and another neighbor said if it wasn’t for a Good Samaritan down the street, with a weapon, they don’t know if the woman victim would’ve been okay.
“I will certainly never forget seeing. It’s like a real-life hero in action. Very responsible gun owner, did everything right. I saw him creeping down the street. He was just wanting to keep everyone safe,” the neighbor explained.
YoVan Young, who works for First Choice Heating and Cooling, was working a job about a block from where this shooting happened. He said he had his gun on him and his first reaction when he heard the victim screaming for help, was to head that way…
Young said he ran over to the victim and helped her get behind a car for safety because the suspect was still shooting. Young said he fired some warning shots at the suspect, took his belt off, and used it as a tourniquet on the victim’s leg to slow her bleeding down…
Jenna Rae, “Good Samaritan saves South St. Louis woman after being shot by her neighbor,” KMOV, November 3, 2022.
Philadelphia, PA, October 31, 2022
After a car accident on Halloween night, an argument ensued when both drivers got out of their vehicles and turned violent when a bystander tried to intervene. The suspect fired multiple times at the bystander. That’s when a licensed gun owner in the other vehicle allegedly took her gun out and shot once toward the suspect.
The first shooting occurred at about 4 p.m. along the 6400 block of Dickens Avenue in Southwest Philadelphia. A man was shot six times in the abdomen by 27-year-old Phan Tran, who allegedly caused a car crash and then an argument leading to gunfire, authorities said…
“Tran is alleged to have caused a crash in which he collided with another vehicle carrying two women and a 5-year-old child,” according to Jane Roh, a spokeswoman for District Attorney Larry Krasner.
Both drivers got out of their vehicles and started arguing, according to the DA’s office. A bystander tried to intervene and “came into physical contact” with Tran, who then allegedly fired at the unnamed bystander, striking him multiple times, Roh said. The man in his 30s was taken to Penn Presbyterian Medical Center in critical condition, according to police.
“The passenger in the other vehicle, also a licensed gun owner, retrieved her firearm and fired a single shot at the defendant, who was not struck,” the release states. Police said both weapons were recovered…
David Chang and Christine Mattson, “At Least 3 Dead, 4 Hurt in 5 Separate Shootings in Philly in a Matter of Hours,” NBC Philadelphia, October 31, 2022.
Gainesville, GA, October 17, 2022
An armed good Samaritan shot and injured a man who was armed with two steak knives and threatened multiple people, including two female EMTs, in a Gainesville neighborhood. The suspect was possibly experiencing a mental health crisis.
Darrion Suave Fraley, of Gainesville, was charged with attempted murder among other charges after an incident Oct. 17 on Shades Valley Lane…
The callers said the man, later identified as Fraley, 34, was damaging vehicles and making threats.
Raper said Fraley’s mother was one of the 911 callers, riding alongside Fraley in a car trying to get him to stop. She warned neighbors that her son was having an episode and for them to stay in their homes…
“He’s screaming, ‘I’ll kill them all,’ or something to that effect in the recordings of the 911 (call),” Raper said.
Around the same time, Phillip Garrison’s father was being picked up by two paramedics with a private service for treatment, Raper said. Fraley approached them with two steak knives, one in each hand, the investigator said.
The paramedics retreated into the home, and Garrison, a military veteran, stood guard at the front of the house with a five-shot revolver…
Raper said Fraley ran toward Garrison, and the two men started grappling…
Garrison started shooting and fired all of the bullets in the revolver…
Garrison eventually got Fraley to the ground, holding him until officers could get there to help, Raper said.
Raper described Garrison as nervous but calm. A veteran who had served overseas, he was still suffering from bruising and soreness from the fight…
Nick Watson, “‘He’s screaming, “I’ll kill them all”’: Investigator provides details about knife-wielding man who threatened medics,” The Times, November 4, 2022.
Chicago, IL, October 14, 2022
A knife-wielding man was allegedly assaulting a woman outside a residential building in East Garfield Park. Another woman, 54, then arrived on the scene and intervened, shooting the suspect multiple times.
Chicago police say a 33-year-old woman was trying to enter a residential building in the 700 block of North Spaulding Avenue just after 8 p.m. when a 62-year-old man began swinging at her with a knife.
A 54-year-old woman intervened and shot the man multiple times…
Fox 32 Digital Staff, “Woman shoots knife wielding attacker after another is stabbed in East Garfield Park,” Fox 32 Chicago, October 15, 2022.
Pensacola, FL, September 28, 2022
An altercation took place at the homeless camp where the suspect was beating and cutting his girlfriend. A 57-year-old man intervened to protect the woman. When the suspect refused to talk and pulled a knife on the armed man, he fired a single round at the suspect.
A 57-year-old man will not be charged after shooting and killing a 40-year-old man last week at an Escambia County homeless camp…
According to Sheriff Simmons, Carstarphen got into an altercation at the homeless camp with his girlfriend. He allegedly was beating her and cut her with a knife.
“Another transient seen this and she went to go get a gentleman by the name of Harry Jefferson,” Sheriff Simmons said.
Sheriff Simmons explained that Jefferson came to the woman’s defense, which is when Carstarphen pulled a knife on him. Jefferson then shot him in self-defense.
“Harry Jefferson felt his life was in danger or lives of others were in danger, and he fires a single round at Carstarphen,” he said…
WEAR Staff, “No charges for shooter in killing at Escambia County homeless camp,” WEAR-TV, October 4, 2022.
Pasadena, TX, August 31, 2022
A woman fatally shot a stranger who harassed her co-worker, crashed through a gate outside of a Pasadena business, and attacked her when she confronted the suspect with her lawfully possessed gun. Authorities say the woman was not injured.
The armed woman, whom police did not identify, was also attacked by the suspicious man when she intervened just after 12:15 a.m. on Wednesday in the 1400 block of South Houston Road, near West Southmore. The address points to a complex that houses Nexeo Solutions and ST Labs.
According to police, the armed woman’s co-worker left the business through an electric gate when she saw a man hitting a side window of her car with his fist. He then yelled at the co-worker.
The co-worker was able to leave and close the gate behind her, when the man got into his vehicle and drove through the electric gate, hitting several cars parked inside the business.
It was by this time, police said, that the armed woman entered the picture. She was outside of the workplace but inside the gated area when she saw what happened and went to get a handgun, which investigators say was lawfully in her possession.
The woman confronted the man, who then attacked her, leading to a struggle. It wasn’t until she opened fire twice at the man that the struggle ended, police said…
Daniela Hurtado, “Pasadena stranger killed after harassing woman and attacking her armed co-worker, police say,” ABC 13, September 1, 2022.
Phoenix, AZ, June 8, 2022
A man was trying to steal a car when a group of people nearby intervened. One of them reportedly shot the suspect.
A suspect has been hospitalized after reportedly being shot during an attempted carjacking in west Phoenix.
Phoenix Police say the incident happened on June 8 near 83rd Avenue and Encanto Boulevard.
During the attempted carjacking, citizens intervened, and one of them reportedly shot the suspect…
FOX 10 Staff, “Citizens intervene, stop attempted carjacking in west Phoenix: police,” FOX 10 Phoenix, June 8, 2022.
Pittston Township, PA, June 2, 2022
A woman was walking back to her car in front of the Envy Nails salon at Pittston Crossing when she noticed a man standing by her vehicle. She said they exchanged words and the suspect then shot her in the back twice. A bystander licensed to carry a firearm was at the nail salon, heard gunshots, went outside, and returned fire.
Luzerne County District Attorney Sam Sanguedolce said Monday the man was inside the nail salon business with family when he heard gunshots outside.
“He exited the nail facility and confronted the gunman and fired what we believe were three shots,” Sanguedolce said.
State police have charged Christopher Nelson Carmona, 37, of Manhattan, N.Y., with shooting a 20-year-old woman when she confronted him rummaging through her vehicle parked in front of the nail salon business in Pittston Crossings, a shopping plaza on state Route 315, on June 2.
Carmona allegedly shot the woman twice in the back and ran away.
As Carmona fled the scene, a man who is licensed to carry a firearm fired at least three shots at him, Sanguedolce said.
“He was legally carrying a sidearm,” Sanguedolce said, noting no charges were filed against the man calling his actions justifiable…
Ed Lewis, “DA: Shooting by bystander justified,” Times Leader, June 13, 2022.
Grand Prairie, TX, May 5, 2022
A person who attempted to rob a business was shot to death by a customer in the store who had a concealed handgun license.
On Thursday, May 5th, at around 9:10 P.M., the Grand Prairie Police Department responded to a robbery in progress at a business in the 1600 block of W. Polo Road. Officers located the robbery suspect inside the business with an apparent gunshot wound. The suspect was transported to a local hospital and later pronounced deceased.
Detectives determined the suspect, who was in the commission of committing an armed robbery of the business and an employee, was confronted by an armed customer who was a concealed handgun license holder. Fearing for his life, and for the life of the employee, the customer intervened and shot the suspect.
The customer is cooperating with Detectives and no charges are expected at this time…
Malcom Chakery, “Armed robbery suspect shot and killed at Dollar General in Grand Prairie by armed customer,” Grand Prairie News, May 6, 2022.
Frankfort, IL, April 30, 2022
Two suspects wearing masks, gloves, and hoods entered the business armed with handguns and demanded money from several patrons and employees of the business. A patron in the bar was also armed and shot one of the robbers several times. The suspect that was shot on the scene was pronounced deceased, and the other suspect fled on foot.
A suspect was fatally shot by a bar patron Saturday morning at Ryan’s Pub in suburban Frankfort.
The bar is located at 7928 Lincoln Highway.
According to the Will County Sheriff’s Office, at about 3:15 a.m., deputies were dispatched to Ryan’s Pub for a report of an armed robbery in progress.
The sheriff’s office said two Black male suspects entered the business armed with handguns, and demanded money from patrons and employees at the business.
The suspects were allegedly wearing dark-colored clothing with latex gloves, masks and hoods, and told patrons and employees that if they did not comply with their demands, they would shoot everyone in the establishment…
A patron of the bar who had access to a firearm, pointed it at the suspects, and shot at them multiple times…
No one has been charged in this incident.
Jenna Carroll, “Frankfort shooting: Patron fatally shoots armed suspect at bar during robbery, another suspect flees,” FOX 32 Chicago, May 1, 2022.
Philadelphia, PA, March 30, 2022
A male suspect pulled a gun and tried to rob the store, when a customer, who has a license to carry, reportedly shot the suspect twice in the abdomen. The suspect died from his injuries at the hospital. The second robber fled the store after the shooting.
Officers from the Philadelphia Police Department were called to the 1400 block of Master Street around noon for reports of a shooting.
A police source told FOX 29’s Jennifer Joyce that two young men wearing masks entered the store and approached a man in his 23-year-old man waiting for a food order. One of the robbers hit the man in the head with the gun and a struggle began.
The robber handed the gun to his accomplice at which point law enforcement sources said the customer shot the armed robber twice in the abdomen. The customer is licensed to carry a firearm, according to police sources…
Law enforcement sources say the customer was released and is unlikely to be charged. The entire incident was captured on store surveillance that has already been turned over to investigators.
FOX 29 Philadelphia Staff, “Armed robbery suspect shot, killed by customer in North Philadelphia store, police say,” FOX 29 Philadelphia, March 30, 2022.
Woodbridge, VA, February 27, 2022
A good Samaritan fired shots at an oncoming car that eventually hit a woman, and his son, following a melee at a Woodbridge commuter lot. The incident started as a domestic dispute. The good Samaritan possessed his weapon legally and will not be charged.
On Saturday, February 27 at 7:25 p.m., officers were called to report pedestrians struck at the Horner Road commuter lot, 13455 Telegraph Road in Woodbridge.
A 27-year-old woman who was choked during a domestic abuse situation that occurred inside a car parked in the commuter lot could free herself and her 5-year-old daughter and flee to another car parked nearby.
A 57-year-old man, and his children, ages 16, 8, 5, and 15-months, were inside the car. The man and his son, 16, got out to help the woman and her child, police said.
At that point, the suspect who choked the woman circled his car around the parking lot and sped toward the victim and the good Samaritans, police said.
The 57-year-old man pulled a gun and fired multiple rounds towards the oncoming vehicle as the car sped toward them, striking the car once.
The suspect slammed into the good Samaritan’s car, with the 8-year-old boy, 5-year-old girl, and 15-month-old girl, still inside, causing significant damage. The suspect struck the woman he had been choking, and the 16- year-old male good Samaritan, police said.
The driver sped away, exiting the commuter lot and onto Interstate 95, police said…
The good Samaritan possessed his weapon legally and will not be charged, police added.
Uriah Kiser, “Pedestrians struck, shots fired in Woodbridge commuter lot melee,” Potomac Local News, February 28, 2022.
Philadelphia, PA, February 18, 2022
The dog was mauling a small child when a man took his legally owned gun, which is licensed, and shot the attacking animal.
It happened in the 6100 block of Ogontz Avenue at 7:14 a.m.
Police say the dog was mauling a small child when a man fired his gun at the animal…
The man who fired the gun had a permit to carry, police say, and will not be charged…
“I caught the attack on camera. I immediately took action, jumped out, told everybody to move, and discharged my firearm,” said Patrick. “There were a lot of people out there. They were beating the dogs shooting with a paintball gun, trying to do everything to get the dog off the child, but there was nothing no one could do.”…
Annie McCormick and 6abc Digital Staff, “‘I immediately took action’: Good Samaritan shoots dog to save small child from attack in Philly,” 6 ABC, February 18, 2022.
Pueblo, CO, February 11, 2022
A man inside the restaurant was assaulting his girlfriend. “Several employees of the restaurant attempted to stop the assault when the situation escalated, with the victim being shot by an employee.”
Pueblo police responded to the 3:15 p.m. Mountain time incident Friday, Feb. 11, at a Jack in the Box on U.S. Highway 50, the department said in a news release.
A man inside the restaurant began attacking his girlfriend, and several employees tried to intervene, police reported.
One worker shot the man “when the situation escalated,” police said. He was hospitalized in critical condition but expected to survive…
No charges have been filed.
Don Sweeney, “Jack in the Box worker shoots customer who was attacking girlfriend, Colorado cops say,” Idaho Statesman, February 13, 2022.
Decatur, GA, January 28, 2022
A man preparing to rob a MOD Pizza in DeKalb County was fatally shot by a customer. No charges will be brought against the customer.
DeKalb County police confirmed they will not charge a customer who shot and killed a would-be armed robber at a pizza place.
According to a police incident report, officers determined gunfire was exchanged during an attempted robbery at MOD Pizza on Friday night. The shootout left Ontario Davis, 24, of Decatur, dead…
The customer told officers he was sitting in the pizza joint when Davis, who was wearing a mask and holding a pistol, told everyone inside to get on the ground, the report said. Davis turned his back on the customer and told employees, “One of y’all get up and get the money out of the register.”
The customer said he took the opportunity to pull out his own weapon, point it at the suspect and tell him to drop his pistol. Davis then turned toward the customer and began shooting, the report said.
The men exchanged gunfire until Davis dropped to the floor. Police said Davis was able to stumble out of the restaurant, and officers found him across the street. He was taken to a hospital where he later died…
Zachary Hansen, “Police: Customer killed would-be robber in shootout at DeKalb pizza place,” The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, February 1, 2022.
Waco, TX, January 28, 2022
A male was actively stabbing a female and chased her into the gas station. A Good Samaritan stepped in and fired a weapon against the man in defense of the woman.
Police responded at 7:40 p.m. to the QuikTrip at 2350 S. New Road after a report that the man was chasing the woman into the store and continuing to attack her, Officer Garen Bynum said in a press release.
During the response, police learned a “separate third-party individual had intervened in an attempt to defend the female victim by shooting the suspect with a handgun,” Bynum said in the press release.
Both the alleged attacker and victim were transported to a local hospital with severe injuries, Bynum said. The bystander with the gun remained at the scene to speak to officers and is cooperating with the investigation, Bynum said. The bystander has not been charged with a crime…
Waco Tribune-Herald Staff, “Waco PD: Bystander shoots man who attacked woman with knife,” Waco Tribune-Herald, January 29, 2022.
Blytheville, Arkansas, November 16, 2021
A suspect accused of shooting a driver who had pulled over near the on-ramp to I-55 South was shot by residents who had stopped to help.
Chief Ross Thompson said Tuesday that a suspect from out of state was walking in the area when they approached a driver who had pulled over on the side of the road to adjust something on their trailer.
The suspect then attempted to attack the driver, leaving the driver shot in the process while two witnesses saw what was happening and tried to help…
“Officers also located individuals on scene from Blytheville, who reported they were driving by and stopped to help but Davis turned on them, assaulting and chasing them back to their car,” Thompson said. “They were armed with a firearm and shot Davis after giving him warnings to stop the assault.”
Thompson said police do not anticipate filing any charges against the people who helped Churchwell…
Jorge Quiquivix, “Police release video in Blytheville roadside shooting,” KAIT 8, November 16, 2021.
Port Arthur, TX, October 1, 2021
An armed customer intervened during an aggravated robbery at the Church’s Chicken, fatally wounding one gunman and sending a second suspect struck by gunfire to the hospital.
Port Arthur police responded around 8:45 p.m. Friday to an aggravated robbery happening at the Church’s Chicken location at 1849 Jefferson Drive. Detectives learned that two suspects armed with handguns were robbing the restaurant, but an armed citizen intervened and a shootout ensued.
“Several shots were fired and both suspects were struck,” the Port Arthur Police Department said in a press release. “The suspects fled the scene and were later located by police officers.”…
Danielle Wallace, “Texas police say ‘armed citizen’ shot robbers at fast-food chicken chain, killing 1 suspect, wounding second,” Fox News, October 3, 2021.
Kalispell, MT, September 16, 2021
A patron shot the manager of Fuel Fitness to death in the parking lot due to a disagreement on the refund of his gym membership. A bystander who heard the shooting ran to his vehicle and grabbed a pistol. The bystander said the patron fired two rounds toward him and he returned fire, disabling him until police could arrive.
Shaw is charged with killing Fuel Fitness manager Matthew Hurley and injuring another man who heard the initial shots, grabbed his own weapon and exchanged gunfire with Shaw.
Hurley and the assistant manager, Matthew Underhill, had told Shaw he could no longer live in his vehicle in the fitness center’s parking lot and that they were refunding the remainder of his membership, court records said. Underhill told investigators that when Shaw was told he would only receive a partial refund, Shaw said: “Well, you are going to die,” and started shooting at Hurley, prosecutors said…
Associated Press Staff, “Transient Charged in Kalispell Fitness Center Shooting,” Associated Press, September 30, 2021.
Tacoma, WA, July 18, 2021
A Tacoma carjacking suspect who lured the victim out of his vehicle by telling him he had a flat tire was then shot by an armed witness who intervened.
A man was sitting in his car Sunday by the laundromat he was using near the 3700 block of South L Street when the suspect told him he had a flat tire. When he got out to check, the would-be carjacker got behind the wheel.
The two men struggled, the victim yelled for help, and the suspect was able to grab the keys.
That’s when a witness who’d been working on a house nearby arrived with a gun and got the suspect out of the car.
The suspect allegedly told the witness with the gun, “Oh, I need that.”
Then the defendant allegedly took out a knife, and told the man, “Shoot me.”
As the suspect came toward him, the witness gave him a couple warnings before he shot him in the leg.
Investigators didn’t find the suspect with a knife but noted he was holding a pipe…
Alexis Krell, “Man attempts carjacking in Tacoma, but a witness shot him in leg, court records show,” The News Tribune, July 22, 2021.
Long Beach, CA, May 28, 2021
The suspect targeted the shooting victim in the parking lot of the hotel and assaulted him while robbing him at gunpoint. His alleged accomplice later joined in the robbery. An armed citizen intervened and fatally shot the suspect in defense of the robbery victim. The accomplice fled the scene on foot.
Authorities determined that a man who shot and killed a 17-year-old alleged robber in Long Beach last month did so in defense of a victim, it was announced today.
Officers arrived at the scene of the shooting and found a mortally wounded Guillermo Mayorga III, of Riverdale, Georgia, in a hotel parking lot in the 3600 block of Santa Fe Avenue about 11:20 p.m. on May 28, according to coroner’s Lt. David Smith and the Long Beach Police Department. He was pronounced dead at the scene…
A preliminary investigation revealed Mayorga attacked his victim in the parking lot while his accomplice joined in the robbery, police said. Mayorga fired multiple rounds from a handgun, striking the robbery victim and his accomplice, who fled on foot.
The fight continued between Mayorga and the robbery victim until a third person — described only as a man — became involved and shot Mayorga, police said. That man then fled the scene.
The man turned himself in to Long Beach Police Department Headquarters at about 3 p.m. Thursday and was interviewed by detectives.
Investigators determined that the man’s actions were in defense of the original robbery victim, which police said was corroborated by supporting evidence and video surveillance footage.
The man, whose name was not released, was not arrested and detectives plan to present the facts of the case to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office once their investigation is complete, police said…
City News Service Staff, “Police: Man Who Killed Teenage Robbery Suspect Was Defending A Victim,” KFI AM 640, June 14, 2021.
San Antonio, TX, May 15, 2021
The suspect reportedly arrived at the clinic with the woman and fired shots at her after some sort of argument. A protestor on the sidewalk, who does have a license to carry a firearm, saw the shooting and fired shots in an attempt to protect the victim.
The shooting happened Saturday around 8:30 a.m. in the 7400 block of John Smith Drive, near the intersection of Wurzbach and Babcock roads on the Northwest Side.
A man who arrived with a woman at the facility pulled out a gun and shot at the woman but missed, Ramos said during a morning press conference near the scene.
A person who was with a group of protesters near the clinic saw the shooter and used his handgun to fire at the man, police said. Police said the protester had a license to carry the pistol.
“It is still under investigation… you have a right to defend somebody else,” Ramos said. “… He did something a reasonable person would do. He saw someone engaged in a shooting and so he went and stepped in and intervened and stopped that shooting from occurring.”…
Cody King, Alicia Barrera, Steven Chavez, Kolten Parker, “Police: Bystander returns fire at man who shot at woman at San Antonio abortion clinic,” KSAT.com, May 15, 2021.
Everett, WA, May 11, 2021
A suspect had become aggressive with people walking on the sidewalk – including a woman and her grandchild. He had been chasing families with weapons and striking others before a bystander pulled a gun shooting him twice.
Police reported the man had been walking his dog around 3:30 p.m. Tuesday when he started to yell and “became aggressive towards people” on the sidewalk around Silver Lake, according to Everett police.
Two of those people were a grandmother and her granddaughter, who were in the 11300 block of 19th Ave SE.
Several men tried to intervene, police said Wednesday. The man used pepper spray on them and struck them with a baton.
One of the other men had a pistol. He shot the alleged aggressor twice, police said…
Police spoke with “numerous” witnesses at the scene. Officers detained the shooter, who cooperated with them. He was not arrested…
Herald Staff, “Man dies after confrontation, shooting near Silver Lake,” Herald Net, May 13, 2021.
Boston, MA, May 9, 2021
The suspect had approached a woman and tried to rob her, putting his hands on her neck. The Good Samaritan who is licensed to carry a firearm stepped in to stop the assault and when the suspect approached him, the witness fired a shot in the air.
Officers responded to the area of the Franklin Park Golf Course around 4:45 p.m. after receiving 911 calls reporting shots fired. When they arrived, they arrested Wayne Straw, 38, of Dorchester, on charges of aggravated assault.
A witness – who police said is licensed to carry a firearm — allegedly saw Straw threaten the woman and tried to stop what was happening…
The Good Samaritan who stepped in to help told Boston 25 News that he brought his legal firearm onto the golf course because, he said, the employee said the attacker was choking her. Venon and his friends said the Good Samaritan was trying to control the suspect at gunpoint…
The Good Samaritan said he fired a shot in the air after the suspect reached for a knife in his waistband. When police arrived they took both men into custody, but the Good Samaritan has not been charged. That Good Samaritan told us he has the legal firearm for his own safety…
Robert Goulston, “Man arrested after allegedly trying to rob, threaten woman on Dorchester golf course,” Boston 25 News, May 10, 2021.
Tucson, AZ, April 28, 2021
The suspect was physically assaulting his girlfriend in the bank’s parking lot. The woman approached a bystander for help, who shot and killed the suspect after he kept verbally confronting them.
Officers were called to a shooting in the Wells Fargo Bank parking lot, in the 1700 block of West Valencia Road, just after 7:30 p.m. and located a man with gunshot wounds. Despite first aid, the man was pronounced dead at the scene. Police identified him as Juan Carlos Velderrain, 32.
Detectives determined that Velderrain was physically assaulting his girlfriend in the bank’s parking lot before the shooting. The woman managed to get away from Velderrain and approached a bystander for help. The woman got into the bystander’s vehicle as Velderrain verbally confronted them, police said.
During the confrontation, the bystander, an adult male, pulled a handgun and shot Velderrain, police said…
The bystander was interviewed by police at the scene and no arrests have been made…
Kelly Presnell, “Tucson police: Bystander shoots, kills man assaulting woman in parking lot,” Tucson.com, April 30, 2021.
Massapequa, NY, March 6, 2021
A 56-year-old man was in front of 95 Unqua Road when the suspect attempted to rob him and threatened him with a knife. A Good Samaritan intervened and shot the suspect in the leg. The suspect fled the scene on foot.
Police say Aidan Doober approached a 56-year-old man in front of 95 Unqua Road and demanded the victim’s cash and keys.
They say a 51-year-old man who was nearby attempted to help the victim, when Doober threatened that 51-year-old man with a knife.
According to a police release: “In fear of his safety, the victim discharged his firearm and struck defendant Dooher once in the leg. The defendant fled the scene on foot, running northbound on Unqua Road. Police located him soon after and were able to place him under arrest.”
Doober was transported by ambulance to a nearby hospital for treatment. He faces two counts of attempted robbery, two counts of menacing and criminal possession of a weapon…
News 12 Staff, “Nassau PD: 21-year-old shot, arrested in Massapequa attempted robbery,” News 12, March 6, 2021.
Apple Valley, CA, February 7, 2021
The 33-year-old suspect was at his father and stepmother’s home when he attacked the victims for an “unknown reason.” Both victims ran outside to look for help and the suspect left the area. While neighbors were alerting authorities of the attack and helping the victims, the suspect returned to the home and again began attacking the victims with a knife. The neighbor ran back home to get the gun and stopped the attack by shooting the suspect to death after he continued stabbing the victim.
On Sunday, February 7, 2021, at 5:00 p.m. deputies responded to the 16200 block of Pauhaska Street for reports of a stabbing and shooting.
Arriving deputies found a male and female deceased near the front of a home and a third person laying in the street suffering from apparent knife wounds…
According to a sheriff’s news release, “both victims ran outside and sought help from neighbors, and Jeremy left the location. While neighbors called 911 and assisted Jerry and Lorain, Jeremy returned and began attacking Lorain again with a knife.”
A neighbor ran into his home, armed himself with a gun, and yelled at Jeremy to stop, but he continued stabbing Lorain, officials said. At that time the neighbor, an 84-year-old man, shot Jeremy and stopped the attack. The neighbor was shaken up but not injured…
Victor Valley News Group Staff, “Suspect shot dead by neighbor after killing mother and stabbing father in Apple Valley,” Victor Valley News Group, February 8, 2021.
Chicago, IL, January 12, 2021
The suspect was holding up a woman at gunpoint in the Calumet Heights neighborhood when a Good Samaritan stepped in and shot the suspect in the leg.
At 5:59 p.m., the 39-year-old woman was on the street in the 9000 block of South East End Avenue when the robber walked up, took out a gun, and demanded her property, police said.
Then another man approached both the robber and the victim, took out his own gun, and shot the robber, police said…
CBS 2 Chicago Staff, “Man Shoots Robber Who Was Holding Up Woman at Gunpoint in Calumet Heights, Police Say,” CBS 2 Chicago, January 12, 2021.
Green Township, PA, December 22, 2020
Two men were taking turns firing a weapon at a gun range on state game lands in Greene Township, Pennsylvania when one of the men turned on the other and began firing at him. A 67-year-old male was to the left of the group and witnessed what happened. He then fired his weapon at the shooter to stop the attack.
Erie County District Attorney Jack Daneri ruled the deadly shooting at a State Gamelands gun range during the week of Christmas as justified…
It happened Dec. 22 when Robert Eppley, 26, and his friend Michael Patterson, 28, went to the State Gamelands 109 gun range on Sampson Rd. in Greene Township to try out Patterson’s new gun. Both were joined by their girlfriends, and the two couples were friends and traveled to the gun range together.
After firing down the range, investigators said Eppley turned and began firing the weapon at Patterson, hitting him multiple times, according to State Police.
A 67-year-old Erie man who was also at the gun range saw Eppley firing and intervened, shooting Eppley five times and killing him. Eppley was hit twice in the ribs and three times in the back. The 67 year old stayed at the scene to help and give CPR…
It’s still unclear why Eppley decided to open fire on Patterson.
Toxicology results showed Eppley had a blood-alcohol content of .21, Daneri said Tuesday. No other drugs were found in his system.
Erie News Now Staff, “Deadly Shooting at State Gamelands Gun Range Ruled as Justified; No Charges Warranted, District Attorney Says,” Erie News Now, February 2, 2021.
Philadelphia, PA, November 29, 2020
A customer walked in on a robbery at a Northeast Philadelphia takeout restaurant and ended up killing the suspect.
It happened at around 10:30 Sunday night at the Wingstop in the 2100 block Cottman Avenue.
Police said the suspect, a 53-year-old man, came in wearing a mask and gloves.
“(He) walked in, went behind the counter, announced a robbery and asked for all the money,” said Philadelphia Police Department Chief Inspector Scott Small.
Before the three employees who were inside could comply with his demands, a customer walked in talking on his cell phone.
“That’s when the robber pointed a gun at that customer and demanded his cell phone,” said Small, who added that the 27-year-old customer quickly decided to fight back.
“(He) pulled his gun (and) fired one shot at the perpetrator, striking him in the neck,” Small said.
The customer, who does have a valid permit to carry a weapon, stayed on the scene and cooperated with police…
At this point, police said it does not look like the customer who fired the fatal shot will face any charges.
TaRhonda Thomas, “Would-be robber fatally shot by customer at Northeast Philadelphia Wingstop, police say,” 6abc Philadelphia, November 30, 2020.
Columbia, SC, August 11, 2020
An armed customer thwarted a robbery at a South Carolina Waffle House. He confronted the suspects and exchanged gunfire with them before they fled the restaurant without any money.
According to officials, the suspects walked into the business, pointed guns at the cook, and demanded money.
Deputies say one customer in the restaurant who is also a licensed gun owner confronted the suspects. Gunfire was exchanged in the restaurant and the suspects ran away without any money.
No injuries were reported…
WLTX Staff, “Customer Confronts Suspects with Gun at Columbia Waffle House, Shots Fired,” WLTX, August 11, 2020.
Klamath Falls, OR, August 2, 2020
The suspect fired several shots at his girlfriend’s car outside a convenience store. An armed bystander witnessed the confrontation and intervened, shooting the suspect in the right shoulder and right leg.
Officers were dispatched to the 800-block of E Main Street in Klamath Falls after a 911 call reporting that a man had been shot outside of a convenience store. They arrived to find 29-year-old Taylor Reed Jackson suffering from gunshot wounds to the right shoulder and right leg.
Detectives investigating the shooting discovered that Jackson had fired several times at a vehicle driven by his girlfriend, KFPD said. The woman was not injured in the shooting, but multiple rounds struck her vehicle.
During the shooting, KFPD said that a “legally armed citizen” saw Jackson firing at the vehicle and decided to intervene, shooting Jackson twice and silencing the gunfire. According to the agency, Jackson then tried to hide his own handgun, which was later recovered by the detectives…
Jamie Parfitt, “Police: Klamath Falls Man Shot By ‘Armed Citizen’ After Trying to Murder Girlfriend,” KDRV, August 3, 2020.
Lake Elsinore, CA, June 6, 2020
The suspect assaulted his female partner inside a shop and armed himself with a metal object. The business owner intervened to protect the female, by firing one gunshot.
A man suspected of assaulting a woman and a shop owner on Saturday in Lake Elsinore was shot by the shop owner, ending the attack, officials said. The suspect was later arrested on suspicion of domestic violence and other crimes.
The incident took place on the 100 block of Main Street about 12:35 p.m., Riverside County Sheriff’s Department officials said in a news release. Investigators believe the owner of a store witnessed a man repeatedly punching and kicking a female victim, and attempted to stop him. The suspect left, but returned minutes later.
The store owner directed the victim to the back of the store and tried to stand in the way of her assailant, but was pushed to the ground, Sheriff’s officials said. The suspect proceeded to strike and kick the victim, who was also on the ground, then retrieved a metal object and attacked her with that, the release said.
The owner of the business then brandished a firearm at the suspect, who attempted to strike him, Sheriff’s officials said. He shot the alleged attacker once, causing him to flee through the back of the store…
Eric Licas, “Man suspected of beating woman in Lake Elsinore shot and injured by shop owner,” The Press-Enterprise, June 7, 2020.
Bartow County, GA, May 7, 2020
Neighbors intervened and at least one of them grabbed the gun when the suspect was brutally beating an 86-year-old Bartow County man with a metal pipe. They fired two shots, hitting the attacker.
Gravely said Wednesday evening, a man who lives in the area, knocked on Calvin Lee’s door.
“He pulled him out of his house and started beating him,” said Gravley.
That’s when the neighbors heard Lee’s wife scream for help and came running.
“Grabbed his gun, came down, tried to intervene and stop the fight,” said Gravley.
Those neighbors say the attacker turned on them. He punched one in the jaw and tried to take the gun away from the other. That’s when they fired two shots, hitting the attacker…
The suspect, whose name has not been released, was taken to an area hospital and is expected to survive. He is expected to be charged with initial counts of burglary, two counts of aggravated assault and one count of criminal trespass. His name has not been released…
Denise Dillon, “Neighbors rush to intervene, shoots attacker brutally beating of 86-year-old,” FOX 5 Atlanta, May 8, 2020.
Atlanta, GA, March 20, 2020
A witness to an attempted carjacking ended up shooting the man police say was trying to steal the car.
Police said an SUV with men inside pulled up next to a Mercedes-Benz at the gas station as the owner of the car was filling up.
That’s when police said one of the men from the SUV got out and tried to steal the car.
A nearby witness saw what was going on and shot the man trying to steal the car, police say.
The SUV then took off from the gas station.
The witness stayed at the scene and spoke with police. Investigators said the witness will not be charged…
WSBTV Staff, “Witness shoots man attempting to steal car from gas station, police say,” WSB-TV Atlanta, March 20, 2020.
Cape Coral, FL, January 24, 2020
The suspect chased four people after he yelled at them at Rusty’s Bar. The fight ended with a car crash and a good Samaritan opened fire.
According to Cape Coral Police, Lesniak was acting strangely toward three women at Rusty’s Bar, and when the women left the bar, Lesniak began following them.
The women yelled for help from a passing truck and climbed inside when a man stopped to help. Lesniak walked up to the truck, and the passerby presented a firearm and warned Lesniak to back off.
Police say that Lesniak then got in his truck and chased the truck with the women inside. After passing the truck, Lesniak then backed up and rammed into the other truck several times.
The driver with the firearm then fired several shots into the tailgate of Lesniak’s truck and held him at gunpoint until police arrived.
Officers determined that the other driver’s actions in firing on Lesniak’s pickup were determined to be in self-defense and in response to Lesniak’s aggressive actions…
WFTX Digital Team Staff, “Man arrested after police say he aggressively pursued women at Cape Coral bar,” FOX 4 Now, January 24, 2020.
Ellenwood, GA, November 30, 2019
An armed delivery man thwarted a robbery at a fast food restaurant by shooting the suspect.
Officers responded to a robbery in progress at the Hardee’s on Anvil Block Road in Ellenwood about 6:30 a.m., Clayton County police said.
While they were en route, a man delivering bread to the restaurant saw what was happening and challenged the robbery suspect by pulling out his own gun, authorities said.
A “short gun battle ensued,” leaving the robbery suspect wounded, police said. The suspect, identified as Demario Kentrell Parrish, managed to escape the restaurant after being shot twice, but he was later arrested at a home on Jewell Terrance Road…
Shaddi Abusaid, “Delivery man shoots robbery suspect at Clayton County Hardee’s,” The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, December 2, 2019.
Cocoa, FL, November 17, 2019
Two men argued with the security guard as he escorted them outside a Wawa convenience store. They then hit the security guard and knocked him to the ground. A witness inside the convenience store with a concealed carry exited the business to assist the security guard. When one of the men charged at the witness, he fired the shots.
The unidentified man, who had a concealed carry license, was questioned by Cocoa police. No arrests have been made in the case…
Police said two men started an argument inside Wawa, prompting a security guard to escort them outside.
Cocoa police said the argument continued to escalate.
The two men then turned on the security guard and knocked him to the ground in a struggle, police said.
A witness inside the convenience store went outside to help the fallen security guard.
Police said one of the men who fought with the security guard then “aggressively moved toward the witness,” prompting the man to fire at least one gunshot and striking one of the men involved in the altercation…
J.D. Gallop, “Man involved in Cocoa shooting at Wawa tells police he acted in self-defense,” USA Today, November 18, 2019.
St. Louis, MO, November 3, 2019
An armed Good Samaritan came to a woman’s aid as she was robbed by two men. When the suspects fired shots at him, he shot back.
A 26-year-old woman told police it all started when she got out of her car at 12:48 a.m. Sunday. She said one man pointed a gun at her while another man tried to take her purse off her shoulder, but she refused, which led to a struggle.
The woman started screaming, which caught the attention of a 48-year-old man in the neighborhood. He came over and confronted the men who were trying to rob the woman—and it worked. The men dropped her purse and ran toward a red car…
But while they were running away, one of the men fired shots at the man who came to help. He pulled out his own gun and returned fire…
Dori Olmos, “Suspects, Good Samaritan shoot at each other early Sunday in Tower Grove South,” KSDK, November 3, 2019.
Miami, FL, September 19, 2019
A Good Samaritan fired one shot in the suspect’s direction to stop the strong-arm robbery and beating on the victim.
Police said Carter followed the victim outside after the victim finished eating and then punched the victim from behind in the parking lot of a nearby Popeyes, causing the victim to fall to the ground…
Cellphone video taken by a witness shows a good Samaritan, who identified herself to Local 10 News only as Lula, firing her gun during the incident in an effort to stop the attack…
Police said Lula warned Carter to stop beating on the victim or she would shoot him, but he ignored her.
Authorities said Lula fired one shot in Carter’s direction but didn’t strike him.
Witnesses told officers Carter then ran off…
WPLG Channel 10 Staff, “Man, 21, arrested in connection with attempted robbery that led to shooting outside Popeyes,” WPLG Channel 10, September 20, 2019.
Fort Mill, SC, September 15, 2019
A man was ramming his truck into cars at a Fort Mill plaza when he was eventually stopped by another man with a gun.
The incident happened at the Crown Plaza off Regent Parkway Sunday evening.
Witnesses said the suspect got in his black truck and continuously slammed into three to four cars. He was stopped by one of the drivers, who was carrying a gun. The man with the gun allegedly hit the suspect in the head with the weapon…
The York County Sheriff’s Office said the person with the gun will not face charges and is a legal concealed-carry gun owner…
Erin Edwards, “Man with concealed-carry holds suspect, accused of crashing into cars, at bay,” WSOC TV, September 18, 2019.
Coshocton, OH, August 31, 2019
The suspect with a knife was confronted by an armed citizen at a McDonald’s and the situation ended without any injuries.
Bartlett confronted Hayes in an attempt to protect the restaurant’s customers and employees. Bartlett, who has a concealed carry permit, drew his weapon and began to order Hayes to drop the knife, the sheriff’s office said.
According to the sheriff’s office, Hayes refused to comply and began to leave the restaurant. Bartlett pursued Hayes outside where he was able to convince Hayes to drop the knife.
“Due to the heroic actions of Mr. James H. Bartlett, deputies were able to take the suspect into custody without injury or loss of life,” the sheriff’s office posted on Facebook…
NBC Channel 4 Staff, “Man with knife inside Coshocton McDonald’s charged,” NBC Channel 4, September 3, 2019.
Sterling, VA, August 10, 2019
An armed bystander stopped a robbery by shooting three rounds and detaining the suspect until police arrived.
An elderly man is credited with helping to stop a couple from getting robbed in Northern Virginia.
According to Loudoun County Sheriff Mike Chapman, the man sprung into action and fired warning shots from his personal gun as that couple was being assaulted in the parking lot of a hotel near Dulles Airport…
Deputies say it was Saturday morning at the Towne Place Suites by Marriott hotel off Holiday Park Drive in Sterling when witnesses reported seeing Bradley outside acting erratically.
Investigators say that’s when he went up to a man and woman who were walking back to their hotel room from breakfast and began grabbing for the man’s watch on his wrist. The commotion caught the attention of another hotel guest.
“As this was going on there was a witness who was outside on the patio… a senior citizen witness and he saw what was going on here. So, he went out to his car, which was nearby and retrieved his gun. He went back and tried to get this guy to stop the assault and at that point, but the suspect, Jeremiah Bradley, then attempts to lunge at the gentleman with the handgun and he fired a shot. Did not hit Bradley but did fire a shot and told him to get down. He did get down on the ground… but tried to get up again and go after him. He fired another shot or two and it was at that point he told him he had to wait there until law enforcement arrived, which he did,” said Chapman…
“He had a weapon, he had the authority to have the weapon, he had a concealed handgun permit. When he felt his life was being threatened by the initial lunge by this suspect. And if they felt his life was being threatened then certainly he had the right to defend himself,” said Champman…
Anjali Hemphill, “Elderly man fires warning shots to stop attempted robbery in Sterling,” FOX 5, August 12, 2019.
Charlotte, NC, August 8, 2019
Both suspects were shot by a customer, who was lawfully permitted to carry a firearm inside the store after police said they tried to rob a 7-Eleven.
As the suspects, identified as 16-year-old Qwanterrius Stafford and 17-year-old Brenna Harris, turned to rob the store clerk, the customer pulled out his concealed weapon and shot the suspects, according to investigators…
The customer, who had a legal permit to carry a concealed weapon, has not been charged…
WCNC Staff, “He shot two robbers with his legal weapon as they held up the 7-Eleven,” WCNC, August 8, 2019.
Virginia Beach, VA, July 25, 2019
A customer with a concealed carry permit shot two armed suspects in a 7-Eleven robbery, leaving one gravely wounded and the other dead.
The witnesses said one of the suspects went behind the counter and started taking money out of the register. The clerk reportedly told the suspects they didn’t have to do this — and that’s when the witnesses said they heard gunshots…
The gunfire didn’t come from the robbers. Police confirmed a customer who legally had a gun confronted the suspects. He killed one suspect and injured another…
“Concealed carry once again saved lives. I’m just glad the news is actually reporting on this. God bless the hero that saved the workers and customers’ lives,” someone else wrote…
WAVY Staff, “Police: Customer shoots 7-Eleven robbery suspects, killing one,” WAVY, July 25, 2019.
Allentown, PA, June 5, 2019
A bystander lawfully carrying a firearm held the suspect at gunpoint until police arrived after the suspect followed a 47-year-old man in a road rage incident and threatened him with a knife.
Police said the road rage incident began Wednesday afternoon in Allentown.
Gavilanes allegedly followed the victim, a 47-year-old man who police did not name, for several miles, until the victim pulled into the Shops at Tilghman shopping center parking lot at 3017 Tilghman St.
The pair argued, then the altercation turned physical, according to police. Gavilanes had a knife and tried to stab the man several times, police said.
The victim was able to fend off the attacks and hold Gavilanes down, until a bystander lawfully carrying a firearm held the teen at gunpoint until police arrived, the department said…
Sarah Cassi, “Road rage incident ends with attempted stabbing, bystander holding attacker at gunpoint, cops say,” lehighvalleylive.com, June 6, 2019.
Provo, UT, June 3, 2019
The suspect was shot and killed by an armed passerby who had spotted him in a violent struggle with a woman.
Police say on Monday a passerby saw 26-year-old Jeremy Sorensen assaulting an 18-year-old woman and confronted Sorensen with a gun…
The woman was able to break free, at which point police state she “ran behind the passerby”.
Sorensen then reportedly ignored more warnings that he would be shot if he didn’t stop. The passerby fired the gun when Sorensen came for both of them.
Sorensen was pronounced dead at the hospital…
Kierra Dotson, “Police: Man that was shot, killed by passerby was hitting woman, stomping on her head,” ABC 4, June 7, 2019.
Phoenix, AZ, April 3, 2019
The attempted kidnapping of an 11-year-old Phoenix girl on the way to school was scuttled when a witness intervened, knocked down the suspect, and threatened him with a handgun.
An 11-year old girl was on her way to school in north Phoenix when an unknown man attempted to kidnap her according to a witness, the Phoenix Police Department said Monday.
Officials say the man grabbed the girl by the right arm and pulled it behind her back at around 7:30 a.m. April 3, and placed his other arm over her face.
The man started speaking to the girl, when a witness stepped in and knocked the suspect down, telling him to leave the girl alone, police said.
The armed witness then pointed a handgun at the man and told him to leave, according to the police. He was last seen running westbound on Morningside Drive near 22nd Avenue…
Gabriella Khalaj, “Man attempts to kidnap 11-year-old girl near Phoenix school, stopped by armed bystander,” azcentral.com, April 8, 2019.
Weston, MA, January 26, 2019
An SUV driver drove a “very significant distance” with a man on his hood after an apparent road rage incident on the Mass. Pike. It ended when an armed citizen, who had a license to carry a firearm, forced the driver out of his vehicle on the highway.
A gun-wielding good Samaritan brought a harrowing road rage incident to a safe end, reportedly stopping a driver who’d been racing through Massachusetts — with a 65-year-old man clinging to the hood of his SUV.
An unidentified person ordered Mark Fitzgerald, 37, at gunpoint out of his SUV, allowing Richard Kamrowski to climb down from the car unscathed, police said.
“The SUV driver ultimately came to a stop, we believe with the intervention of some good Samaritans, and was taken into custody by responding troopers,” Massachusetts State Police spokesman David Procopio said…
Madeline Fish, “Massachusetts man, 65, clings to hood of SUV on turnpike in suspected road-rage incident,” Fox News, January 28, 2019.
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