When This 86-Year-Old Witnessed a Robbery Taking Place, He Stepped Into the Role of Hero

A fearless octogenarian won't face charges after he chased after a fleeing robber and fired off several shots.

It happened Saturday in the Chicago suburb of Crestwood, Illinois, the Chicago Tribune reported. The 86-year-old man was heading into an AT&T store around noon when he saw the establishment was being held up by an armed robber.

According to the Tribune, the man first stood by the door to prevent other people from walking in and becoming involved in the hold-up. When the man saw the suspect escape through the store's back door, he took off after him.

As he chased the suspect, the 86-year-old man fired a few shots in his direction. No one was injured, the Tribune reported.

Both the Crestwood Police Department and the state's attorney declined to file any charges against the 86-year-old, whom authorities called a "model citizen" and who has a concealed carry permit for his weapon.

“This is an 86-year-old law-abiding individual who comes across a forcible felony in progress … and helped others avoid being victims,” Assistant State’s Attorney Dan Kirk said.

The suspect, identified as 17-year-old Demetrius Merrill of Chicago, was charged with armed robbery and held on $1 million bail, according to the Tribune.

Featured image via Shutterstock

—

Follow Zach Noble (@thezachnoble) on Twitter