Charles, I'm not saying I would not intervene. If I thought it likely that if I did not, the robber would kill his victim, I would, but I would do so using the 'fighter pilot's rule in gunfighting.' (sneak up behind them and shoot them in the back)

Craig, I have participated in self defense drills using safe weapons setting up that scenario. The problem is that if the robber decides to turn and shoot, unless he flags his intent, he will succeed in getting at least one shot off before you can recognize his intent and react. Even though I knew my simulated opponent was going to turn and "shoot," just not knowing when he would do it introduced too much of a reaction time lag.

So, it is best to not intervene unless you are prepared take out the robber without giving him warning.

I commend you for understanding the situation described here, particularly not intervening in something that doesn't directly involve you, when you don't know the mental and physical capabilities and intentions of the armed individual. Better to be a good witness than a dead or seriously injured contender.

Had I personally observed this crime "as it happened", the criminal-at best for him, would have been a granite statue until the police arrived...mainly since in my mind the offender committed additional crimes that need solving.

Jeopardy. Opportunity. Ability. Once all three are met means deadly force is authorized. I'm old school, D-Doc. If what I perceive to be a weapon swings towards me, and I'm armed, I get to go home and hug my wife and children.

It is certainly a duty of citizens to look out for each other. But whether or not to intervene in an armed robbery or to simply act as a good witness is a very personal decision that should be based on a person's ability, temperament and willingness to accept risk.

But one thing I would advice against, and that is to intervene and try to hold an armed robber for the police. Doing so places you in the position of shooting second if the robber decides not to surrender when confronted.

If you make the decision to take action, the robber should be held for the coroner, not the police.

To hear this happened. Teens and young adults drive with their doors open all of the time. But Granby, by DePaul, is getting more and more dangerous (a pedestrian was murdered in front of his fiancee there last year). Good to know these facts, as we sometimes go for medical procedures over there. Cheers, MGM

I really feel for you and your family. I know that there are those that would some how claim that this is all caused by neglecting the poor misunderstood destitute and ignorant souls struggling to find their way. The truth is that there is too much indulgence of bad behavior. I have noticed that the more "open minded" and "sensitive" among us are fine with their self gratifying "tolerance" as long as the affects are Not In My Back Yard. Now everyone gets to live in terror even those fancy people with their high ideals. How democratic! Welcome to my world... Maybe we should pass a law or start a program. Better yet lets have a meeting!

...I cannot conceive anyone observing this not at a minimum calling 911.

Virginians have a right to carry handguns. Had an armed citizne observed this crime, the criminal very well may have been held until Norfolk PD was notified that an armed citizen was holding the criminal..descriptions of all parties included.

This is a leading example of why private citizens should carry a means of self defence or deterence against criminals.

This isn't New York City where people don't get involved.

Just wait for Obama to give you some money so you can move elsewhere. I hear he loves to frequent the area.

Smart people lock their car doors.

Smart people do not interfere with a robbery in progress unless they know and understand what they are getting themselves into. The police, who are trained to do this, and your lawyer, will tell you this.