A 19-year-old suspect in Johnston County, NC was shot during an attempted robbery when his intended victim, who was legally armed, acted in self-defense. The suspect was later arrested and faces multiple charges including attempted robbery and possession of a stolen firearm.
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SMITHFIELD, NC (3-minute read) — A young man from Garner learned the hard way that targeting an armed citizen can quickly backfire. On March 29, a concealed carrier defended himself from an alleged carjacking attempt in the parking lot of a Speedway/Wendy’s location at 5170 Veterans Parkway near Interstate 40 in Johnston County.
According to law enforcement, 19-year-old Dominic Dion Robinson approached the intended victim and reportedly aimed a firearm while demanding the man’s vehicle, phone, and money. However, what Robinson didn’t expect was that his would-be victim was carrying a concealed handgun. Acting quickly and within his legal rights, the intended victim drew his firearm and shot Robinson in what authorities determined was a clear act of self-defense.
Robinson was taken to WakeMed for treatment of serious, but non-life-threatening injuries. Upon recovery, he was arrested on April 14 by Smithfield Police. He now faces charges including attempted robbery with a dangerous weapon and possession of a stolen firearm.
Self-Defense Laws in North Carolina
North Carolina law allows individuals to use deadly force when they reasonably believe it’s necessary to protect themselves from imminent death or serious bodily harm. The state also has a “Stand Your Ground” law, meaning a person has no duty to retreat if they are in a place they have a lawful right to be.
Robinson’s legal troubles didn’t end with the shooting. After being transported to the Johnston County Magistrate’s Office, he reportedly became combative—refusing to follow instructions and even attempting to walk out of the courtroom. He had to be restrained after physically resisting officers and was additionally charged with resisting, delaying, and obstructing officers. A magistrate later found him in contempt of court and sentenced him to 15 days in jail.
The Armed Citizen will not face any charges, as authorities confirmed the shooting was justified under self-defense statutes. Robinson remains in custody at the Johnston County Detention Center with a $210,000 bond.
Safety Tip: Always be aware of your surroundings in public places. Carrying a concealed firearm requires not only skill but also the judgment to act only when legally and morally justified. Know your state’s laws thoroughly.
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