A good Samaritan is reportedly fighting for his life after trying to stop a mugging in downtown Detroit.
Police say the 61-year-old man saw two women being robbed early Monday morning at an intersection right next to the city's iconic Renaissance Center and RiverWalk.
The man, who was driving his car, got out and tried to follow the suspect, reports the Detroit Free Press. They say that's when the suspect turned and shot his gun, striking the good Samaritan in the eye. The victim was taken to the hospital, where he is reportedly in serious condition.
There are conflicting reports in media Monday morning as to what time the incident occurred and whether more than one robber was on the scene.
By day, the Renaissance Center is full of activity and life. General Motors, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Deloitte and the Consulate Generals of Japan and Canada are some of the most notable tenants in the five towers. It's also protected by private security, notes the Detroit News. Local news station WXYZ reports that the good Samaritan was an employee of one of the businesses at the RenCen.
It's another example of the steep price one can pay for attempting to stop a crime in Detroit. In May, MLive.com reported that when a woman from New York tried to help a homeless woman she found lying in the street, another individual offered to assist her before allegedly abducting, robbing and sexually assaulting her.
UPDATE, 11:45 a.m -- According to the Detroit Free Press, an off-duty Homeland Security officer was also shot Monday morning trying to stop a crime in progress. The Border Protection Officer confronted two to three car thieves near his home on Detroit's west side at 6:25 a.m., reports the Detroit News.
The officer was shot exchanging gunfire with the crooks, who then fled. He is listed in temporary serious condition, but his injuries are not believed to be life-threatening. Anyone with information about the crime can make an anonymous tip to CrimeStoppers at 1-800-SPEAKUP.