TX: Concealed Permit Holder Shoots Attacker in Four Star Hotel

Most defensive shootings do not occur in four star hotels.   But on the 6th floor of the Grand Hyatt in San Antonio last Saturday, the 12th of July, there was an exception.

An occupant of the hotel, Moises Torres, 34, is said to have been creating a disturbance in the hallway, breaking light fixtures and banging on doors, saying "he was looking for someone to kill".  At least one person called security.   When the CHL (concealed handgun license) permit holder thought Torres was gone, he opened his door.   He reported that Torres charged him and the woman with him.   He shot Torres once, ending the attack.   It was about 1 p.m.   From ksat.com:

One man heard what was going on and called hotel security. That man, described to be in his 40s, waited until he thought it was safe and opened the door to his room.

Police said when he opened the door, Torres allegedly charged at the man and a woman who was with him. The man drew a pistol and fired once at Torres, shooting him in the chest.

The shooters size or condition was not stated.   A person in their "40s" covers considerable ground.   Readers will note that more people are murdered with hands and feet in the United States than are murdered with rifles.    The police are investigating the situation.    It is likely that there are other guests that can corroborate some of the details.  We know that there was at least one other witness, the woman mentioned.  Certainly physical evidence, such as broken light fixtures, the position of the body, blood drop analysis and other forensic techniques could be used to verify or discredit details of the shooter's account of the story.   This is why I caution students,  if they have the misfortune to be involved in a shooting, not to disturb the crime scene or move a body.   If you were justified, the physical evidence will be consistent with your version of events, just as it eventually was found to be in the George Zimmerman case.

 Massad Ayoob recommends that you say necessary things, such as pointing out evidence that police might miss, for example.  Remember that everything you say can and likely will, be used against you in a court of law.

People with concealed carry permits are much less likely to commit violent crimes than the general population, or even police officers. 

 ©2014 by Dean Weingarten: Permission to share is granted when this notice is included.    Link to Gun Watch