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Robber shot to death by security guard inside sweepstakes parlor, police say

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Police say they are conducting a homicide investigation after a robber was shot and killed overnight inside a sweepstakes parlor.

[PHOTOS: Man shot to death inside east Charlotte sweepstakes parlor]

The shooting happened at the Queen City Skillsville, along Albemarle Road near Reddman Road.

Investigators told Channel 9 that the shooting stemmed from an attempted robbery and that a security guard inside the business pulled the trigger.

Police said two men wearing masks walked into the gaming parlor just after midnight and one of the men, Julian Harris, pulled out a gun and pointed it at office staff.

A security guard working at the business then pulled out his own gun and fired a shot, hitting Harris.

Both suspects ran out of the building but first responders found Harris dead a short time later in the woods next to the building.

Police are still looking for the second person involved and hope surveillance video from inside could help with their search.

Police interviewed the security guard at police headquarters, but he has since been released.

“In my opinion, he was doing his job,” said Netta Vanderhorst, a patron. “Someone lost their life, but a crime was committed. It’s so unfortunate that this family had lost a loved one, but if you are going to commit a crime, there is always going to be a price."

People who visit the shopping center told Channel 9 they're worried about all the violence.

“I’m concerned about the shootings we have; the lack of value of life,” said Richard Little.

Channel 9 watched as the Charlotte Fire Department placed a notice on the front door of the business because the building isn't meeting an occupancy code. It says that anyone who enters will be cited $500.

The owners will have to get a permit through the county in order to reopen.

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