Robbery suspect killed in Richmond, Ind. restaurant

News Center 7 has confirmed the identity of a robbery suspect shot and killed Saturday night inside Mercurio’s Pizza in Richmond, Ind. Freddie T. McCoy, 30, of Richmond, died shortly after arrival at Reid Memorial Hospital. According to Richmond Police, McCoy

was transported there after collapsing on the sidewalk in front of the restaurant in the 200 block of South Eighth Street. Police said a masked McCoy stormed in to the restaurant shortly after 10 p.m. Saturday and tried to grab the cash register. McCoy reportedly

got in to a confrontation with a female clerk, according to police, who is the restaurant owner’s daughter. Police said the clerk called out for help and the owner (her father) fired three shots, hitting McCoy at least once. “In general, everyone has a right to protect

themselves,” said Lt. Bryan Ervin, Richmond Police. “As far as the stance on this incident goes, that’s why we are forwarding it to the prosecutor for review. He will look at all the details and see if the actions taken by the employee were appropriate and within the

constraints of the law.”

Moore & Kemp, Attorneys at Law, released a statement today on behalf of the restaurant owner, Terry Padgett. It states, “we have confidence in the investigative process and Mr. Padgett will continue to cooperate with the detectives. Mr. Padgett acted quickly

and decisively to protect both his business and his daughter.” “Mr. Padgett and his family are still recovering from this tragedy but are expected to resume business Thursday. Mr. Padgett, his family, and employees are grateful for the support they have received

in this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers extend to the family of Mr. McCoy, his friends and loved ones.” Stay tuned to whiotv.com and News Center 7 for new developments.