But for most, frequenting convenience stores is hardly optional when fuel is needed. Thus, it is a great idea to be prepared for the unexpected.
Even in the middle of the day.
A customer at a QuikTrip in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Wednesday found themselves in a frightening situation. And it was 10:30 a.m.
A robbery was reported to police, and when they arrived in the parking lot of the store the suspect allegedly fired a single shot in the air. They then drove away.
For reasons unknown, the suspect then reportedly circled back around to the convenience store and approached a customer who was pumping gas. A confrontation ensued and the customer produced a weapon and shot the suspect.
He did not survive. The suspect was identified by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police as 32-year-old David Joseph Leonhardt.
A witness at a nearby oil change business saw the scene as it unfolded. Leroy Boyd told local media that the shooting was “unfortunate. It’s very unfortunate for sure.”
Firefighters were washing a truck nearby, and Hakim Simmons said they were startled to hear a loud noise from what they thought was a gun. “We kind of all scattered because we weren’t sure exactly what was happening.”
Officers transported the customer to the Law Enforcement Center in uptown Charlotte after the incident. CMPD confirmed that no other suspects are being sought and no charges are expected.
It is an unappealing sign of the times, but the reality is that citizens should always be prepared for the unexpected. The Second Amendment is an ally that is irreplaceable when random violence strikes. One convenience store customer is thankful today that they were armed and ready.
