Mobile, Alabama – An attempted armed robbery at a Family Dollar store took a dramatic turn when one of the intended victims fought back, leaving the suspect, 18-year-old Adric White, with gunshot wounds. White, who was already out on bond for a previous robbery, allegedly held store employees at gunpoint before an armed Good Samaritan intervened, shooting him and thwarting the crime.
The Robbery Attempt
According to authorities, Adric White entered the Family Dollar store wearing a mask and wielding a firearm. Witnesses say he pointed the weapon at the cashier and demanded money from the register, ordering employees and customers to comply with his demands. What White did not anticipate was the presence of a legally armed citizen who decided to take action.
A customer inside the store, who happened to be carrying a concealed firearm, witnessed the situation unfold and saw an opportunity to prevent a potentially deadly encounter. Acting swiftly, the armed customer drew his weapon and fired multiple shots at White, striking him several times and stopping the robbery attempt before it could escalate further.
Immediate Aftermath
Law enforcement officers arrived at the scene moments after receiving emergency calls. White was found on the ground, suffering from gunshot wounds but still alive. Emergency medical personnel transported him to a nearby hospital, where he was treated for his injuries. Police later confirmed that White was in stable condition and would face multiple charges upon release.
Store employees and witnesses commended the armed customer for his bravery, stating that his actions likely prevented a violent situation from escalating. No bystanders were harmed during the confrontation, and authorities praised the quick response of both the witness and law enforcement.
White’s Criminal History
Further investigations revealed that White had a criminal history and was already out on bond for another robbery case at the time of the attempted Family Dollar heist. His prior arrest stemmed from a separate armed robbery incident, raising concerns about how he was able to commit another crime while awaiting trial.
Local prosecutors are now reviewing his case and considering revoking his bond, given the severity of his repeated offenses. Many in the community have expressed frustration with the justice system, questioning why White was free to commit another crime despite his prior arrest.
Family’s Reaction
Surprisingly, White’s family reacted to the incident with outrage—not at his criminal actions, but at the Good Samaritan who shot him. Speaking to local news outlets, some of White’s relatives claimed that the armed customer should not have fired at him. One family member was quoted saying, “Why did he have to shoot him five times? He could have just held him there until the police arrived.”
This statement sparked significant debate among the public. Many citizens expressed their disagreement with White’s family, arguing that the armed customer had every right to defend himself and others inside the store. Supporters of the concealed carrier noted that in situations involving armed robbers, hesitation could lead to innocent lives being lost.
Legal Perspective and Public Debate
Under Alabama law, individuals are permitted to use deadly force if they believe their lives or the lives of others are in immediate danger. Legal experts have indicated that the armed customer was within his rights to act in self-defense, given that White had already brandished a firearm and posed a direct threat to everyone in the store.
The case has reignited discussions about self-defense laws, the responsibilities of armed citizens, and whether repeat offenders should be granted bond. Some community members believe the justice system failed by allowing White back on the streets after his first arrest, arguing that stricter policies should be in place for repeat offenders.
Conclusion
As White recovers from his injuries and faces additional legal consequences, the incident at Family Dollar serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with criminal activity. While his family may see him as a victim, the broader community and law enforcement officials view the situation differently—emphasizing the right of law-abiding citizens to protect themselves from violent threats.
With White’s criminal history now under greater scrutiny, authorities will likely face pressure to take stronger actions to prevent similar repeat offenses. Meanwhile, the armed customer’s quick response has been hailed as a heroic act that potentially saved lives that day.
Note: we are republishing this story which originally made the news in November 2013.
