Masked Robbery Suspect Shot by Employee at West-Side San Antonio Vape Shop

SAN ANTONIO, Texas — An attempted armed robbery at a vape shop on San Antonio’s west side came to a sudden and violent halt when a store employee shot the masked suspect in self-defense, according to the San Antonio Police Department.

The incident occurred on the afternoon of October 5, 2025. Officers responded to emergency calls regarding a shooting at the commercial establishment. Upon arrival, they learned that an individual wearing a mask had entered the shop, brandished a weapon, and demanded cash and merchandise from the employee behind the counter. Fearing for their life, the employee drew a licensed firearm and fired at the suspect, successfully stopping the robbery.

First responders administered emergency medical aid to the wounded suspect before transporting them to a nearby hospital for treatment. The suspect's condition and identity have not yet been released. Meanwhile, the shop employee was unharmed during the altercation.

SAPD investigators are currently reviewing surveillance footage from the scene and interviewing witnesses. At this stage in the investigation, no charges have been filed against the employee, as preliminary evidence strongly supports that the shooting was a justifiable act of self-defense during an active threat.