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PHILADELPHIA, PA — A violent armed robbery in the Port Richmond section of Philadelphia Tuesday night ended with a licensed concealed carrier firing 16 rounds at a fleeing vehicle after he and his girlfriend were attacked and robbed at gunpoint.
The incident occurred around 10 p.m. on East Clearfield Street near Aramingo Avenue. According to police, a 27-year-old man and his 26-year-old girlfriend had just parked their vehicle and were walking when two men approached them with firearms drawn.
The suspects held the couple at gunpoint. A physical altercation followed, during which the male victim fought back. When his girlfriend tried to assist him, one of the suspects shot her in the leg. Both victims were then pistol-whipped, and the suspects stole approximately $1,000 in cash before fleeing in what was described as a gray sedan, possibly a Buick.
After the attackers began to drive away, the boyfriend—who is licensed to carry a firearm—drew his weapon and fired 16 rounds at the retreating vehicle.
“We know he fired 16 shots at that vehicle that was fleeing the scene,” said Chief Inspector Scott Small.
There is currently no confirmation that either of the suspects was struck. The woman was hospitalized and underwent surgery. The male victim was not reported to have sustained serious injuries.
Police are reviewing surveillance footage to track down the suspects and their getaway vehicle.
This incident highlights the concept of “drawing from the drop”—when an armed citizen finds themselves behind the curve, facing an already-present threat. It’s understandable that the carrier did not draw his firearm immediately, given the tactical disadvantage and potential risk to both himself and his girlfriend.
However, the decision to open fire on a fleeing vehicle, while emotionally charged and possibly instinctive, may carry legal consequences. In most jurisdictions, the use of deadly force is only justified to prevent imminent death or serious bodily harm—not to retaliate against a fleeing threat.
Concealed carriers must always weigh the legal standards of justified force and recognize the line between lawful defense and unlawful use of a firearm. Knowing when to act—and when to hold fire—is a critical part of responsible carry.
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