An alleged catalytic converter thief is recovering from a gunshot wound after he encountered a determined furniture store employee, who is now facing charges over the incident.
The situation unfolded Monday morning in San Antonio, where the 48-year-old employee saw a man attempting to steal catalytic converters from vehicles parked outside the store where he works, according to police.
Police say the worker chased the suspect and they got into a scuffle. At some point, both men got into their vehicles and the suspect rammed the worker's truck as he tried to flee, KSAT reported. That's when the worker allegedly pulled out a gun and shot at the suspect's vehicle several times.
The 32-year-old suspect was struck in the legs and taken to the hospital for treatment.
After being interviewed at the scene, the worker was arrested, KENS reported.
"Every case is different," a police spokesperson told the station. "We have to account for totality of circumstances before saying someone's actions are justified or not. In this case, the detectives on scene were able to talk to all involved parties and make a determination."
The worker is now facing a charge of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, according to KABB.
Although police reportedly found a detached catalytic converter at the scene, it's not clear if the alleged thief will face any charges.
Catalytic converter thefts are an increasing problem in cities across the country. The units contain valuable metals, making them hot items among thieves because of their scrap value.
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