Father defends family by shooting, killing restaurant robbery suspect, say police

SAN ANTONIO - A father eating a meal with his family shot and killed a robber who threatened him with a gun during a nighttime robbery on Wednesday.

Andres Herrera, 19, walked into the Popeye's on Southeast Military Drive near South Flores Street shortly before 9 p.m. according to the San Antonio Police Department.

Investigators said Herrera first approached Carlos Molina, 32, who was eating with his family and demanded his property at gunpoint. Molina said he had no money because he used it to buy the meal, then asked if the thief would let his family go.

Herrera then turned toward the counter, pointed the gun and yelled at the manager to stop running.

As Molina's family walked out of the restaurant, police said two more family members walked out of the restroom and the suspect pointed the gun at them.

Molina then quickly pulled his gun out and shot Herrera several times, killing him. Officers said Molina is a licensed handgun owner and they believe he shot in defense of a third person.