RICHMOND, VA — A robbery attempt at a local restaurant ended in gunfire Thursday night when an employee shot and killed an armed suspect who entered the business wearing a mask and carrying a firearm.

According to Richmond Police, the incident occurred around 9:30 p.m. at Sugar’s Crab Shack on Chamberlayne Avenue, just across from the Fourth Police Precinct. The suspect, identified as 37-year-old Dominique Epps of Henrico County, entered the restaurant with apparent intent to rob the establishment. An employee confronted Epps and exchanged gunfire with him, fatally shooting the suspect.

Epps died at the scene. The employee, whose name has not been released, remained on-site and cooperated fully with investigators. Richmond Police Chief Rick Edwards stated that no charges have been filed against the employee at this time, describing the shooting as likely an act of self-defense.

“That doesn’t mean that that won’t change later,” Chief Edwards said. “But at this point, we are still conducting our investigation, and it seems to be a use of self-defense.”

Surveillance footage from nearby businesses, including the Military Retiree’s Club next door, helped document the moments following the shooting. Earl Reid, president of the Military Retiree’s Club, noted the frequency of incidents in the area and stressed the importance of being able to protect oneself.

“I’m sorry that somebody lost their life and it had to be that way, but you also got to protect yourself,” Reid told CBS 6.

Attempting an armed robbery directly across the street from a police precinct baffled many. “You couldn’t pick a worse spot unless you tried the courthouse,” one neighbor remarked. Chief Edwards alluded to the suspect’s poor planning, suggesting a lack of regard for the area’s law enforcement presence.

If your employer does not prohibit carrying a firearm at work, it’s worth considering whether you’re prepared to defend yourself in a life-threatening situation. This incident highlights the value of being armed and trained—especially in high-risk environments like late-night businesses. Always stay within the law, ensure your carry practices comply with workplace policies, and make regular training a priority so you can respond with confidence and competence if the unthinkable happens.

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Source: Masked Gunman Killed by Employee During Attempted Robbery at Sugar’s Crab Shack