Charlotte security officer fatally wounds armed robber
CHARLOTTE, N.C. August 24 2017- Police say they are conducting a homicide investigation after a robber was shot and killed overnight inside a sweepstakes parlor.
The shooting happened at the Queen City Skillsville, along Albemarle Road near Reddman Road.
Investigators said that the shooting stemmed from an attempted robbery and that a security officer inside the business pulled the trigger.
Police said two men wearing masks walked into the gaming parlor just after midnight and one of the men, Julian Harris, pulled out a gun and pointed it at office staff.
A security guard working at the business then pulled out his own gun and fired a shot, hitting Harris.
Both suspects ran out of the building but first responders found Harris dead a short time later in the woods next to the building.
Police are still looking for the second person involved and hope surveillance video from inside could help with their search.
Police interviewed the security officer at police headquarters, but he has since been released.
“In my opinion, he was doing his job,” said Netta Vanderhorst, a patron. “Someone lost their life, but a crime was committed. It’s so unfortunate that this family had lost a loved one, but if you are going to commit a crime, there is always going to be a price.”
People who visit the shopping center told local media they’re worried about all the violence.
“I’m concerned about the shootings we have; the lack of value of life,” said Richard Little.
Investigators also determined that the business was operating illegal and was not licensed.
They have issued several summonses to the business and shut it down until the proper permits are obtained.
