Guard Booked in Shooting of Theft Suspect
A Pasadena supermarket security guard was booked on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon Thursday after a man allegedly trying to flee with six stolen steaks was critically wounded, Pasadena police reported.
Michael Banks, 33, of Altadena was taken to Huntington Memorial Hospital with a bullet near his spine. Pasadena police Lt. Robert Huff said Banks faces possible permanent paralysis of the lower body.
Huff said that the manager of Farmer’s Family Food Market at 448 E. Villa St. tried to stop Banks outside the store about 4:30 p.m. but that the suspected shoplifter struggled and the manager called to security guard James Hubbard, 42, for help.
As Hubbard came running, Huff said, Banks sprinted away and climbed a fence. Hubbard reportedly fired one shot at the fleeing man’s back.
Huff said a robbery complaint will be sought against Banks.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
