Police: Shoplifter attempts to shoot person trying to stop him

GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. - Police need help to identify a shoplifter and his accomplice who attempted to shoot someone who was trying to stop them in the act.

On Wednesday, a man entered a business on Lawrenceville Suwanee Road around 2 p.m. Investigators said he loaded over $1,800 worth of equipment and rushed to the parking lot.

Police said as the man was fleeing, other shoppers tried to stop him, but he had a handgun and threatened to shoot them. The man fled to a waiting vehicle and began to load the stolen items, according to police.

Then, additional bystanders tried to intervene. Police said the suspect tried to shoot one of the bystanders, but his gun didn’t fire. He’s also accused of assaulting one of the bystanders with his handgun.

Another man was inside the car, waiting on the suspect. After the stolen items were loaded, the two drove off.

The first suspect is described as a black male, possibly in his 20s, about 5’6”, 130 pounds, with short black hair and short facial hair. The second suspect was driving the red Kia Soul.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Gwinnett County Police Department at 770-513-5300. A reward of up to $2,000 is being offered for any information leading to an arrest in the case.

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