WARNER ROBINS, Ga. — Police say a Warner Robins restaurant employee who shot and killed an armed robber was acting in self-defense.
"About 9:45 p.m. last night, there was a call received to 911 about a robbery in progress," Sergeant Justin Clark recalled.
The call came in from the American Philly N Wings on Watson Boulevard. Police say 23-year-old Joshua Hickey tried to rob the place.
"Basically a male entered, later found to be Joshua Hickey, entered with a mask and a hood on. He did have a semi-automatic pistol,” he continued.
Sergeant Justin Clark with Warner Robins Police says Hickey jumped the counter and attempted to make his way to a door in the restaurant while demanding money. That's when things escalated, Hickey allegedly pistol-whipped a worker and the two men fought over the gun.
"The restaurant worker was struck, hit the ground. As he was coming back up, he drew his own legally-owned firearm and fired three shots at Mr. Hickey. Mr. Hickey was struck twice and fled on foot,” Clark said about the tussle.
Officers found Hickey on Vernon Drive and took him to the hospital where he died.
According to the National Crime Victimization Survey, two specific types of crime increase in December-- robbery and personal larceny. Those crimes increasing by 20% during the last month of the year.
"Theft in general does tend to increase around the holidays. As far as our robbery numbers, though, from last year versus this year, we're right on par to have about the same, which is 70, currently," he explained.
Whether you work at a business or you're just shopping or eating out, Clark says pay attention this holiday season.
"Be aware of your surroundings, be aware of people coming in and out, pay attention to your doors and things like that,” Clark added.
The employee was not hurt.
13WMAZ went to the restaurant, the staff declined comment.