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CHICAGO, IL — A concealed-carry license holder was injured in a shootout with two suspects during an attempted carjacking early Tuesday morning in the city’s Pilsen neighborhood, according to Chicago police.

As reported by ABC7 Chicago, the shooting happened around 5:51 a.m. in the 1100-block of West Cullerton Street. David Villalobos, 66, was walking his dog when he noticed two suspects near a parked vehicle. He initially thought they might have been using a phone, but quickly realized one of the men was pointing a gun at the head of the driver inside the car.

When Villalobos confronted the suspects, one of them threatened him, saying, “Hey, old man, get the f— out of here before I shoot you.” Before he could retreat, shots were fired. Villalobos drew his concealed firearm and returned fire. He was struck in the leg and later transported to Stroger Hospital in good condition.

“It was a superficial wound. But it went in and out, and I thank God for that,” Villalobos said. “I’m thinking about going home, see my wife, my grandkids. You know, that’s what I’m thinking. I’m not thinking about shooting the guy. I was very hesitant to do so.”

The suspects fled the scene in a waiting Lexus sedan. The vehicle was later found abandoned in North Lawndale, about five miles away. No arrests have been made, and Area Three detectives are continuing the investigation.

Nearby residents reported hearing 15 to 20 shots and expressed growing concern about rising violence in the neighborhood. “I’m scared to walk my streets,” said one neighbor. “Living here all my life since I was a kid

, never been scared to walk around the streets in my neighborhood until now.”

While Villalobos’ actions were brave and potentially prevented harm to the intended carjacking victim, this incident highlights a critical and often difficult reality for those who carry a firearm: knowing your mission. In defensive firearms training, that phrase typically refers to understanding the limits of what—and more importantly, who—you’re willing to risk your life to protect.

Villalobos put himself in harm’s way for a stranger, and while his actions were commendable, his own words reflect the internal conflict many concealed carriers face. “I’m thinking about going home, see my wife, my grandkids.” That statement captures the heart of why concealed carriers must think carefully about when and how they intervene. Situational awareness and preparedness are crucial, but so is having a clear understanding of your priorities and your personal safety.

Engaging in a violent encounter—especially on behalf of someone you don’t know—carries enormous risk. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, but every responsible carrier should consider their own boundaries before finding themselves in the middle of a life-or-death situation.