Robbery suspect shot by bar employee

A man suspected in an armed robbery was shot by a bar employee Thursday morning in the southwest valley.

Las Vegas police said a masked man with a gun entered The Lodge at 5790 S. Fort Apache Road, near Russell Road, about 6 a.m. and demanded money.

Three patrons and one employee were inside, said Lt. Clint Nichols, who heads the department's Robbery Section.

After receiving money from the register, the man fled the bar, Nichols said. An employee, who was armed, followed the suspect.

"He was hoping to get a vehicle description," Nichols said.

After a confrontation, the employee shot the suspect multiple times in the chest.

The suspect was transported to an area hospital with critical injuries, although Nichols wasn't sure whether they were life-threatening.

Nichols did not know whether the suspect also fired his gun. He said it's doubtful the employee would face criminal charges for his actions.

Police believe the suspect acted alone, but the investigation is ongoing, Nichols said.

"We've got a lot more work to do and it's still early," he said.

Contact reporter Mike Blasky at mblasky@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0283.