Holly MatkinQueens, NY – An armed robbery suspect was fatally shot by a 65-year-old man during a holdup in the Kew Gardens neighborhood early Wednesday morning, according to police.
The incident occurred outside of 123-35 82nd Avenue at approximately 2 a.m. on May 31, WNYW reported.
Investigators said a 65-year-old man was out walking when a younger man approached him, according to the New York Post.
The 32-year-old suspect then allegedly pulled out a sharp object and ordered the pedestrian to hand over his money and cigarettes, WNYW reported.
The would-be victim responded by pulling out his gun and shooting his attacker in the torso multiple times, according to WABC.
He then called 911 for help and waited with the wounded suspect while police responded, WNYW reported.
The suspect was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The 32-year-old career criminal had a slew of prior arrests for robbery, drug possession, burglary, and other similar charges, WABC reported.
His identity was not immediately released, pending next of kin notifications, according to the New York Post.
Police recovered the robbery victim’s gun at the scene, WABC reported.
The 65-year-old man was taken into custody for questioning and was allegedly cooperating with investigators.
They said they do not believe the man knew his attacker.
Police also said the robbery victim does not have any arrest history, WNYW reported.
Investigators said they are looking into whether the gun the man used to defend himself was legal as well as whether he has a permit to carry a gun in New York City, according to the news outlet.
It is unclear if he will face charges, the New York Post reported.
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