Sheriff: Suspect in robbery attempt apologized when business owner produced gun

LANCASTER COUNTY, S.C. — A man wielding an ax apologized after the owner of a business he was trying to rob got out a handgun, the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office said.

Early Wednesday morning, deputies were called to Rusty’s Grill on Pineview Drive because of an attempted armed robbery. The sheriff’s office said a man with an ax had walked into the restaurant and demanded money. When the business owner produced a handgun and challenged the man, he apologized, said he was on drugs and fled the scene, according to investigators.

Investigators said they found the suspect, 45-year-old David Deese, several streets away from the scene. He was charged with armed robbery and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime.

“First and foremost I am thankful that no one was injured during this incident.  The business owner showed great restraint as he rightfully defended himself and his business.  I also applaud the men and women of the Sheriff’s Office for their swift and diligent response to the incident.  We are thankful that we could get this dangerous suspect off the street so quickly,” Sheriff Barry Faile said.

WSOC