DEKALB COUNTY, GA – A local business owner found himself in a harrowing confrontation when an attempted transaction with a supposed customer turned into a life-threatening ordeal. Surveillance footage captured the chilling moment at Dignity Store Tire on Redan Road, where the owner, identified only as John, was held at gunpoint.
The incident unfolded when a man arrived at the store with a flat tire, requesting assistance. John noted the first sign of trouble when the man insisted on using a cash app for payment. After seemingly sending $55, the suspect requested additional repairs costing approximately $500. The man left, only to return later without any payment confirmation.
During their exchange, the suspect asked to retrieve a jacket from his vehicle, which John now believes concealed a firearm. The video shows the suspect suddenly attacking John from behind, leading to a brief struggle. The situation escalated as the gunman, now masked, pressed the weapon against John’s forehead.
Under duress, John was forced into the driver’s seat and instructed to carefully back the car out, with the threat of being shot if he disobeyed. As the gun pointed menacingly toward him, John seized a fleeting opportunity to escape. He sprinted to safety, desperate to preserve his life.
In a dramatic turn, John, armed with his own firearm, fired at the suspect, prompting the assailant to flee. Authorities later discovered that the suspect’s vehicle had been reported stolen two days prior to the incident.
This terrifying encounter wasn’t the first at John’s business. In October, another incident occurred when individuals broke into the building, bypassed security measures, and drove vehicles through the glass garage doors.
DeKalb County Police are urging anyone with information regarding the suspect or the incident to come forward. The community remains on high alert, hoping for a swift resolution and the apprehension of those responsible.