Dunkin' Donuts Owner Shoots, Kills Would-Be Robber

LAUREL, Md. (WJZ) -- In Anne Arundel County, an attempted robbery at a Dunkin' Donuts ends with the suspect getting shot. 

 

Kelly McPherson has more on the struggle between the robber and the property owner in Laurel.

 

When a man tried to rob Dunkin' Donuts at 3:30 a.m. Tuesday on Laurel Fort Meade Road, the property owner happened to be there and police say he killed the robber.

 

The clerk at the liquor store next door heard what happened from the Dunkin' Donuts clerk working at the time of the shooting.

 

"Once the guy had come into the store, he asked for the money.  He gave him the money and he followed the guy outside.  That's what he said, that he followed the perp outside and that he heard two gunshots," said clerk Devin Yi.

 

"There was some sort of struggle that ensued between the suspect and the property owner.  At some point, the suspect was subsequently shot," said Justin Mulcahy, Anne Arundel County Police.

 

 

The 29-year-old suspect died from the gunshot wounds.  Witnesses told police that he announced to the store that he had a weapon but police won't say if they found a gun on him or not.

 

The shooting happened in the parking lot.

 

This isn't the first time a business owner has fought back against a thief.

 

"It's that time of year plus the economy is bad so you have to watch your back wherever you go, no matter who you are.  They don't care out there nowadays.  They'll grab and rob you, shoot you, kill you for a dollar," said Richard James Ford.

 

"Nowadays, people are starting to arm themselves, especially small business owners.  Gotta protect yourself, I guess," Yi said.

 

Police are still investigating and determining if the 48-year-old property owner should be charged.

 

"I'd have done the same thing if it was my business.  Of course, defend yourself.  You've got a right to defend your property and your life," Ford said.

 

No charges have been filed in this case as the investigation continues.