Police: 91-Year-Old Man Shoots Suspected Robber In Rite Aid Parking Lot

EASTPOINTE (WWJ) - Police say a 91-year-old man shot a man he suspected was about to rob him in a Rite Aid parking.

The elderly man told Eastpointe police he had just gotten out of his car —  at around 10:15 a.m. Monday, outside the pharmacy store on 9 Mile Road and Gratiot —  when the suspect began walking toward him "acting in an erratic manner."

Fearing for his safety, police say, the man warned the suspect that he was a concealed pistol license holder — but the suspect didn't stop coming at him.

The elderly man said the suspect continued to approach pointing an unknown object, and that's when the elderly man took out his gun and fired, striking the suspect in the neck.

The injured suspect ran across the street where he was found by police and arrested. He remained hospitalized in police custody later in the day.

Deputy Chief Eric Keiser said the shooter is cooperating with investigators.

Meantime, her urges the public to always be aware of their surroundings, and know when to stay away rather than getting involved.

"But sometimes there are people out there that will not let you go, and you have to protect yourself or your family," Keiser said. "And having a plan — what you're gonna do if that happens — is the best way to go."

Any possible charges are pending.

No names have been released.