LAKEWOOD, WA — A confrontation over shoplifting at a local convenience store escalated into a gunfight Wednesday morning, leaving the store owner with a gunshot wound to his leg. The incident occurred at McChord Mart on the 5000 block of Solberg Drive Southwest, according to the Lakewood Police Department.

Officers responded to reports of gunfire at 11:14 a.m., finding the owner in the parking lot with a leg injury. Police provided medical assistance before the owner was transported to a nearby hospital. Authorities confirmed his injury was not life-threatening.

The incident began when three males entered the store while a fourth suspect waited outside. One of the individuals attempted to steal items, prompting the store owner to confront them. The situation turned physical when one of the suspects struck the owner with a can. The group fled the store, but the owner pursued them into the parking lot.

At this point, a gunfight ensued between the owner and the suspects, resulting in the owner being shot. The four suspects—two juveniles and two adults—fled the scene. Law enforcement quickly established a containment perimeter, and with the assistance of Pierce County Sheriff’s Office, Washington State Patrol, and Steilacoom PD, all suspects were apprehended within 40 minutes.

Detectives are continuing their investigation into the incident.

This situation underscores the importance of carefully evaluating risks during a confrontation. Although the owner’s actions stemmed from understandable frustration over shoplifting and being physically struck, following the suspects outside significantly increased the danger. Outnumbered three-to-one, the owner was fortunate to survive the encounter with only a non-life-threatening injury.

Additionally, this incident highlights the importance of having immediate access to medical supplies such as a trauma kit and understanding how to use them effectively. In a critical incident, knowing how to stop bleeding or stabilize an injury can be lifesaving. While this injury was not severe, preparedness is essential for gun owners and anyone who may find themselves in harm’s way.

De-escalating the situation by staying inside the store and waiting for law enforcement would likely have been a safer choice. While property theft is frustrating, personal safety should always be the priority in any self-defense scenario.