Thug reportedly throws rock at heavily armed security guard for Philly gas station — and soon finds out what a stupid move it was

A heavily armed security guard at a Philadelphia gas station fired a single shot at a man who threw a rock at him amid an argument Monday afternoon, authorities told WTXF-TV.

What are the details?

Andre Boyer — chief of the private security company hired to protect the Karco gas station at the intersections of Broad and Clearfield streets — told WTXF it was the second straight day the 39-year-old man who was fired at caused trouble at the gas station.

"He went off, and he started acting crazy," Boyer told the station regarding the rock-throwing man.

Image source: YouTube screenshot

Boyer added to WTXF that "the guy threatened [the guard] and threatened other people here, and [the guard] took self-defensive action."

The station said the security guards carry two guns: a rifle loaded with 100 rounds and a semi-automatic handgun.

The Karco gas station where Monday's incident occurred made national headlines last December when its owner announced he was hiring armed guards to protect the station and its customers after repeated criminal activity.

What happened next?

WTXF said officers took both men into custody after the 5 p.m. incident.

Image source: YouTube screenshot

Image source: YouTube screenshot

"We're not sure if it was a warning shot, we don't know that at this time until we interview both parties," Chief Inspector Scott Small told the station.

No charges were reported immediately after the shooting, WTXF said, adding that investigators are hoping to use gas station surveillance footage to get a better picture of what exactly went down.

"It's going to be a very thorough investigation since deadly force was used, although no one was shot, no one was even struck by gunfire, no one was even hit by a rock," Small added to the station.

WTXF said the district attorney will decide what charges, if any, to file in the case.

Boyer noted to the station that it was the first time any of his guards fired a gun since they started providing security at nine Philadelphia gas stations last December.

Armed guard at Philly gas station fires at man who threw rock at him during argument: policeyoutu.be

Anything else?

Neil Patel runs the Karco gas station at Broad and Clearfield streets and owns 22 gas stations in the region, 12 of which are in Philadelphia. It was reported last year that his gas stations had been repeatedly ransacked and vandalized; his car was targeted; an ATM machine was stolen from a station; and shoplifting had been a frequent occurrence. Patel noted that such activity quickly dropped after he hired the armed guards.

What's more, it was reported just days ago that a popular city eatery — Jim's West Steaks and Hoagies — also hired armed security guards.

Saul Landers, the chief financial officer of Jim's West, told WPVI-TV, "Our lines are down the block, so while you're standing here in line, connecting with other people you may not know, we have security right here just to keep you guys safe."

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