Armed Washington State Residents Stop Nail Gun Thieves

U.S.A. - On the afternoon of 22 December, 2018, two young men decided to steal from a Coastal Farm & Ranch store in Marysville, Washington. Marysville is a town of about 60,000 population 35 miles north of Seattle. The two young men took nail guns worth about $3200 from the store, without paying. They did not expect opposition. Most stores teach their staff not to confront thieves. While it may prevent some lawsuits, it is an invitation to steal.

In this case, concerned citizens worked to stop the blatant theft.  An impromptu militia of six formed up and surrounded the suspects' car with drawn pistols. 

Another responsible citizen followed the car until he thought they showed a gun. Then he backed off.

The car was found three blocks away with two flat tires. All the merchandise was inside. The police deployed a dog to track the suspects.  The two suspects, 22 and 23 years old, were taken into custody.

The armed citizens did not fire until the driver of the getaway car committed assault on the armed citizen attempting to detain them. The armed citizen who was struck with the car is in good condition. He did not need to be hospitalized. The two suspects have been charged with felonies.