Staff Reports
In a heartwarming display of Christmas cheer, a jewelry store owner in Gardendale, Alabama successfully defended his store from a would-be robber. Jeff Dennis, the courageous owner, recounted the incident in an interview with AL.com. Upon seeing a woman enter his store with a face mask and coat, Dennis immediately sensed trouble. “I knew then what was happening,” he admitted.
Store Owner Makes Robber Who Shouted 'Happy Holidays' While Releasing Bear Spray Instantly Regret Decision via @WestJournalism https://t.co/ZPQ7rRxSSX
— Beri (@sniffydogs) December 9, 2023
Thinking on his feet, Dennis quickly put a block in the door to prevent the robbery. After assessing the situation, Dennis bravely drew his weapon. The woman reportedly wished him “Happy holidays” before threatening to harm him and his employees. Undeterred, Dennis skillfully evaded a bear spray attack and shot the suspect in the shoulder.
When asked about his actions, Dennis confidently stated, “I did what I had to do to protect my store and my employees.” Although he emerged unscathed, Dennis emphasized the potency of bear spray. “If you’ve ever been around bear spray, it’s so toxic,” he revealed. The effects were so severe that a professional cleanup crew was necessary to remove the lingering fumes.
The Gardendale Police Department later confirmed the suspect’s capture, posting an update on their Facebook page. The aspiring robber, Heather Denise Wright, is facing charges of robbery and criminal use of defense spray, as she has an extensive criminal history. As Wright remains hospitalized for injuries sustained during the incident, she will be booked into the Jefferson County Jail and faces a bond of $90,000.
