Police say three brave security guards prevented an armed guy from entering a Florida strip club, preventing a probable mass killing.
In stunning security footage released by the Tampa Police Department on Tuesday, a man wearing a red devil mask can be seen coming near the door of the club Mons Venus early on Sunday morning.
Florida Authorities Identified The Suspect
During a news event on Tuesday, Acting Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw stated that a “vigilant and watchful” security guard spotted the individual and attempted to take the pistol.
The suspect, identified by police as 44-year-old Michael Rudman, was forced to the ground by Resto and two other security guards until authorities arrived.
Bercaw stated that everything occurred in less than one minute. Any officer will agree that one minute of fighting with an armed suspect feels like an eternity.
Police allegedly discovered two fully loaded magazines in the suspect’s pocket, as well as more ammo, nine knives, and firearm attachments in his pickup truck, which was parked near the club, according to authorities.
Some 200 individuals were inside the venue when the incident occurred at 1:15 a.m., according to authorities. No one was wounded inside.
Without a doubt, we would be debating a mass shooting in the city of Tampa if not for the brave men you see standing next to me. Today, however, an armed suspect is in custody and no lives were lost due to their heroism Bercaw stated.
Read more: Youtubers face $1 billion lawsuit for financing FTX
Police Still Investigating The Incident
Since then, investigators have established that Rudman allegedly attended the establishment the night before.
Rudman is charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and aggravated assault, both felonies and battery, a misdemeanor, according to court filings. Also, he is accused of purchasing, having, or receiving a pistol while subject to a risk protection order.
Tampa police said he was presented with a risk protection order by the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office last year.
In a Hillsborough County jail, Rudman is being held without bond. A pretrial detention hearing is scheduled for this Friday, according to court documents.
Read more: IRS issues annual dirty dozen list, including email and text message scams
