FALLS MILLS, VA — In a harrowing incident on Friday afternoon, a good Samaritan intervened to stop a violent carjacking attempt involving a mother and her child. The incident occurred at Lee’s Kar-Go, a local convenience store in Falls Mills, Virginia.

The suspect, identified as 30-year-old Cody Dailey, approached a woman in her truck and attempted to carjack the vehicle. During the altercation, Dailey assaulted the woman and made a horrifying threat to her child, stating, “I’m going to rape your mommy,” according to local news outlet WVVA.

Hearing the woman’s screams, several bystanders rushed to her aid. Among them was an armed citizen carrying a 9mm handgun. The armed man attempted to de-escalate the situation by issuing verbal commands to Dailey, but the situation quickly escalated. Dailey charged at the good Samaritan, pushing him to the ground.

Despite being knocked down, the armed citizen managed to defend himself and the victim by firing his weapon, striking Dailey in the chest. The sound of the gunshot alerted nearby law enforcement officers, who were already in the area attending to a separate incident on Mudfork Road.

Dailey was promptly airlifted to Roanoke for medical treatment. As of the latest update, he is reported to be in stable condition. Authorities have since revealed that Dailey was wanted on two outstanding warrants from the Tazewell County Circuit Court. Additional charges, including abduction, carjacking, and assault, are expected to be filed against him.

Sheriff Brian Hieatt expressed gratitude for the citizens who intervened, saying, “Thank goodness for the good Samaritans that came to the victims’ aid during her time of need. We are grateful for their desire to intercede on her behalf; had they not acted, this could have been a very different outcome.”

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of being prepared to defend oneself and others in critical situations. For those who choose to carry a firearm, regular training and a thorough understanding of self-defense laws are essential to ensure they can act responsibly and effectively if ever faced with a similar situation.