Customer Shot After Drawing Gun in Self-Defence During Robbery at Washington Food Mart
One teen arrested as police investigate robbery-shooting at Pennsylvania convenience store
A woman was shot multiple times late Sunday night at the Washington Food Mart on West Chestnut Street after she drew a legally concealed handgun while three armed teenagers attempted to rob the store.
The incident occurred around 10:30 p.m., when the trio entered the convenience store and demanded money at gunpoint.
As the woman pulled her weapon in self-defence, the assailants opened fire.
Police responded within minutes.
The victim was transported by helicopter to a Pittsburgh-area hospital, where she remains in stable condition.
Authorities have not released her name or details of her injuries.
One of the suspects, identified as 17-year-old Julian Asbury of Washington, has been charged as an adult with conspiracy to commit homicide, aggravated assault, robbery, possession of a firearm by a minor, carrying a firearm without a licence and reckless endangerment.
He is being held without bond.
Investigators are still seeking the remaining two teenage suspects.
Officials have said it remains unclear whether the robbers left the store with any cash or items.
No surveillance footage has yet been publicly disclosed.
Police are continuing to gather evidence and have appealed to members of the public to share any information that may help identify those responsible.
The shooting has prompted renewed attention to the risks faced by civilians who choose to carry firearms for self-protection during violent crimes — especially amid fears of escalating armed robberies involving young perpetrators.
With charges now filed against Asbury, prosecutors face a significant case testing how courts handle violent offences involving minors.
As the investigation proceeds, residents and local authorities in Washington are assessing whether increased patrols or security measures around convenience stores might help deter future attacks and restore public confidence in community safety.