A deadly shooting at a Bessemer bait and tackle store has lots of people talking today.
It happened in what Bessemer police describe as a safe area, about a quarter after four Tuesday afternoon.
Sgt. D.L. hunter says at this point they think the suspect entered The Bait Shop aT 729 9th St N and showed a shotgun to the owner and in the process the owner was able to get to his weapon and defend himself, by fatally shooting the suspect.
The coroner has identified the suspect as 41 year old Kevin Dudley of Pleasant Grove.
Sgt. Hunter says he died at the scene. Police questioned the owner, but made no arrests.
The district attorney's office will have the final say on whether or not any charges are filed.
"The owner was not injured we don't encourage anyone to take the law into their own hands but a citizen does have the right to defend themselves," said Sgt. D. L. Hunter.
Today several customers stopped by hoping to check on the owner, but the bait store was still closed, and surrounded by crime tape.
Jack Stagner says the owner is a friend of his. He thinks the shooting was sad, but believes it was justified.
"You can't let somebody come in and take over your business rob you and run off with your money," said Jack Stagner. "I hate anybody getting hurt, but the way I see it you got to protect yourself."
