Lance Thomas (watch merchant)

Lance Thomas is a watch merchant in Los Angeles, California, who gained national media attention after shooting and [...] five armed robbers during multiple incidents that took place between 1989 and 1992.

Thomas was aware that a number of nearby merchants had been killed by armed robbers, and a friend suggested that he buy a gun for protection. Eventually, Thomas bought multiple guns to store in different places in his shop, so he would always have one handy in case he needed it. He also made sure to receive extensive training on the proper, safe, and legal use of a gun for self defense.

On four different occasions, armed robbers entered Thomas' shop and started shooting at him. Thomas was shot multiple times, including one bullet in his neck, which came very near, but just barely missed, hitting his jugular vein and his spinal cord. However, none of the shots caused any major damage to Thomas. During the four robberies, Thomas killed five of the robbers, and injured one other. Police said that Thomas was justified in all of his actions, and he was not charged with any crimes.

After Thomas killed the fifth robber, the police told him that local gang members were planning a drive by shooting to kill Thomas' customers for revenge. Thomas closed up his shop, and started working in a secret location, only seeing customers through private appointments.

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