This past weekend, a Pizza Hut employee shot and killed an armed robber during an attempted burglary in West Charlotte, according to a CMPD report.
Officers arrived at the Pizza Hut at 3215 Freedom Drive at around 2am on Sunday morning to find Michael Renard Grace with a gunshot wound.
According to the police report, three people entered the restaurant and were in the process robbing the business when an employee shot his personal firearm and knocked Grace to the ground.
Investigators found a handgun at the scene which they say was being carried by Grace during the robbery.
The two other robbers fled the scene and have yet to be found.
1 Person Is Dead After Pizza Hut Employee Shot And Killed Suspect During Armed Robberyhttps://t.co/o3vd3iLMFf pic.twitter.com/0ytTmFyqYj
— WCCB, Charlotte’s CW (@WCCBCharlotte) October 30, 2016
Pizza Hut released the following statement following the shooting:
“The local Pizza Hut franchise is fully cooperating with the Charlotte Police Department as they continue their investigation, but want to stress that the security of its staff is of utmost concern. They are providing support to the team members involved to ensure their health and well-being following this incident. The employee involved in the shooting has been placed on a leave of absence following further review.”
Since the Pizza Hut employee was acting in self defense, and had a valid concealed weapons permit with a legally obtained firearm, it’s unlikely that he will face any criminal charges.
If you have any information about the robbery suspects, police ask that you call 704-432-TIPS and speak directly to a CMPD Homicide Unit Detective.