A South Carolina vape shop employee fought back against an armed robbery suspect and held him down until police arrived, authorities said.
Robbery Attempt at Vape Shop
Police in North Charleston said 33-year-old Justin Adkins entered a vape and smoke shop on Rivers Avenue around 11 p.m. Tuesday.
According to investigators, Adkins demanded money while keeping one hand hidden inside a brown paper bag and claimed he had a .22-caliber handgun.
Employee Fought Back
Police said the employee refused the demand, after which Adkins allegedly threatened to shoot him and started throwing merchandise around the store.
A fight then broke out between the two men.
Authorities said the employee managed to overpower Adkins and pinned him down until officers arrived.
Suspect Taken to Hospital
When police reached the scene, they found heavy damage inside the shop and merchandise scattered across the floor.
Adkins reportedly suffered injuries to his head and face during the struggle and was taken to a hospital before later being booked into jail.
Charges Filed
Adkins has been charged with armed robbery and malicious injury to property.
