A store employee in New Orleans East confronted two armed robbery suspects Tuesday night, fatally shooting one and injuring the other in a shocking incident that has sparked quite the debate online. The New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) says the attempted robbery occurred around 7:50 p.m. in the 8400 block of South I-10 Service Road.

According to WDSU, authorities say that the employee, who was armed, fired at the suspects after they allegedly attempted to rob the business.

Video surveillance from the store captured the tense and terrifying encounter. The footage shows one of the suspects holding a gun to the employee, who initially appeared to comply with his hands in the air. In a dramatic turn, the employee quickly grabbed a firearm and shot one of the suspects while the second suspect fled.

YouTube, WDSU
YouTube, WDSU
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Authorities later apprehended the fleeing suspect, identified as 18-year-old Teony Juarez, who now faces multiple felony charges, including armed robbery and aggravated assault with a firearm. The other suspect, a juvenile, was taken to a hospital but later died from his injuries.

The employee has not been arrested at this time, but NOPD says the investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact police or submit a tip anonymously through Crimestoppers at (504) 822-1111.

Public Reaction Divided Over Incident

The disturbing video and news of the shooting have ignited strong reactions from the public, and of course, opinions landed across a broad spectrum. Many commenters praised the employee's actions, calling them a hero and describing the response as a necessary stand against crime. “Good job, manager,” one person wrote online. “They found out,” another commented, echoing the dozens of commenters who felt that self-defense is a justified response to rising violence.

Others, however, viewed the incident as a dangerous move that could have had unintended consequences. “It’s only a matter of time before someone innocent gets hurt,” one commenter warned, adding concerns about the risks of escalating confrontations during crimes. Another questioned whether armed interventions might ultimately create more harm than good.

Many people expressed sadness and frustration regarding the societal issues behind the situation, particularly with respect to youth crime. One comment stated, “The younger generation today has no guidance,” noting the fate of the juvenile suspect. Another comment suggested, “If this happened more often, maybe people would think twice,” calling for tougher consequences while also recognizing the systemic failures that drive young people into crime.

This incident is the latest example of the dangers that workers and businesses face in high-crime areas. It also raises important questions about public safety, personal responsibility, protection, and the ongoing challenge that is youth crime.

YouTube, WDSU
YouTube, WDSU
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The surveillance footage plays a big role in this investigation and clearly shows how quick decisions can be the difference between life and death in these situations.

We will update this story when more information is made available by authorities.

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