Good Samaritan Shoots Pistol-Wielding Man at Track Meet
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A spectator that authorities are describing as a “good Samaritan” shot and critically injured a gunman at a local track meet yesterday, Dumb Runner has learned.
The spectator, identified as Jack Slater, 39, was in the stands at Madigan High School’s outdoor track awaiting the start of an 800m race when he saw a man on the track produce a revolver and hold it aloft.
Slater, who has a license to carry a concealed handgun, drew his weapon and fired six shots, two of which hit the gunman.
“I didn’t even think,” Slater told Dumb Runner in a telephone interview. “My instincts just took over.”
Police have not identified the injured gunman, but said that he has claimed repeatedly to be an official there to oversee the meet—a story seemingly supported by the fact that his own gun was later determined to be loaded with blanks.
Either way, said authorities, Slater’s actions were laudable.
“This particular individual ascertained a potential threat and he took the necessary actions to neutralize that threat,” said a police spokesman, who requested anonymity. “These days, you can never be too safe.”
The other four bullets fired by Slater hit two bystanders, the spokesperson added. Their condition is unknown.
