California robbery suspect killed store clerk, not charged with murder; victim didn’t act in self-defense: DA
James Williams, 36, opened fire on the robbery suspects as they were fleeing before one fatally shot him in the leg and chest, authorities said
A man accused of killing a California gas station clerk during a "botched" robbery will not face a murder charge because the victim had opened fire on the suspect despite his life not being in danger, officials said Thursday.
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Williams was working inside the store when he was confronted by two suspects, one of whom was identified as Jackson, who was allegedly armed with a gun. Williams then pulled out his own weapon.
Jackson allegedly ran out of the store, while dropping cigar packages, and was shot. Williams kept firing as Jackson was on the ground before Jackson allegedly returned fire and killed him, the news report said.
I agree that Williams was not acting in self defense. Shooting at a fleeing perp is not self defense.
But Jackson was engaged in armed robbery, and I don't see where he has a claim to self defense, either.