American malls may be a vestige of a bygone era, but many people still frequent them on shopping excursions. This, unfortunately, makes these locales into targets for bad guys who prey on the innocent.
For a Maryland man leaving the Burlington Coat Factory Store at Arundel Mills Mall in Hanover, having a ready weapon proved the difference between being a victim and standing his ground.
Ordinary shopping trip became a life-and-death struggle
It was late afternoon on Saturday when three suspects reportedly approached the unidentified shopper. A struggle ensued, and the intended target managed to pull a firearm and fire a single shot.
One of the suspects was struck in the wrist, and the trio decided to cut their losses and make a run for it. The three reportedly hopped into a black Nissan Altima and headed for the interstate.
Authorities chased the suspects until they exited I-97 and crashed. Undeterred, the trio bolted and had to be tracked down in Baltimore County. Using aerial pursuit, law enforcement apprehended the suspects, and all were transported to an area hospital for treatment of injuries.
Yet another incident where a good guy with a gun ends a threat
A police officer also suffered a non-life-threatening injury in a crash during the pursuit. Besides that misfortune, it was a happy ending to what could have been a tragic encounter.
The investigation continues, and no charges were announced against the Maryland man who apparently defended himself.
Many malls are gun-free zones, but one shopper is thankful today that he had the presence of mind to be armed. In a three-against-one confrontation, the outcome may have been starkly different without the firearm.
And that is the beauty of the Second Amendment. Hunting and target shooting are invaluable parts of the nation’s social fabric, but at its core, the right to keep and bear arms is essential for personal security and peace of mind.
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