It was almost 11 a.m. Saturday morning, not a time when criminals are normally up and out. This instance, however, proved that it is prudent to be always prepared.
According to CWChicago, a 27-year-old man entered the front of the jewelry store and struck the glass of a merchandise display. But as he attacked the case, something unexpected happened.
The outlet reported that “a man behind the counter draws a pistol, racks the slide, and fires as the [alleged] thief appears to be turning toward the door.” That man in the store turned out to be a concealed carry holder.
Clearly the would-be robber thought better of his Saturday morning itinerary.
The suspect then fell out of the front door of the store but reached back inside to retrieve something he’d apparently dropped. Witnesses reported he then ran to the “L” train even as he struggled with gunshot wounds to the abdomen and buttocks.
But the suspect did not make it far before he was taken into custody. Amazingly, the hero who protected the business was also detained by law enforcement.
Even more incredibly, now both have been released pending charges.
According to a Chicago Police spokesperson, “two individuals related to this incident have been released without charging at this time.” The investigation is apparently ongoing.
It is difficult to decide which is worse: the defender being detained, or the alleged smash-and-grab robber being released without charges. Without additional details that were not readily available, it seems highly unlikely that the employee will face charges.
But this is 2024, and stranger things have definitely happened in Chicago.
A resident near the jewelry store identified only as Christine told CBS News that the bad situation is not getting better. “The crime is just escalating, and it’s getting worse and worse. We had kids killed a few weeks ago. Now this armed robbery, it’s a shame.”
