The 28-year-old garbage truck driver turned the tables on two armed robbers by using his legally carried firearm. The driver was ambushed in an alley by two assailants, who intended to rob him.

The driver, who had a valid concealed carry license (CCL), responded to the threat by drawing his gun and engaging in a shootout. One of the robbers, aged 42, was fatally shot in the head, while his 20-year-old accomplice was in critical condition after being hit in the neck. The driver himself escaped the gunfire unharmed, but they treated him for chest pains at St. Anthony Hospital, where he was reported to be in good condition.

These events consistently raise the topic of gun ownership, self-defense, and concealed carry in Chicago, a city known for its strict gun laws. This is a clear example of why individuals should have the right to protect themselves, including while at work.

There have been more criminals shot by people defending themselves than officer-involved shootings in Chicago in the past year.

In Illinois, you have to have a FOID card just to possess ammunition and a CCL license to carry a gun, which the driver had, but I’m sure the criminals didn’t care about following the law. Illinois law allows for the use of deadly force in self-defense when one reasonably believes they are in immediate danger of death or severe harm.

BREAKING: Chicago garbage truck driver exchanges gunfire with 2 armed robbers: shooting one dead and the other in the neck.

Garbage man is a concealed carry license holder. #2A saved his life this Friday morning. pic.twitter.com/DMo0DxdBJr

— Dapper Detective (@Dapper_Det) January 31, 2025

This story has quickly spread across social media platforms like X, with many expressing support for the driver’s quick thinking and bravery.

Albisu faces charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon after allegedly brandishing a firearm at wedding guests in 2023. According to defense expert Bill Engler, “This is when he pulls the gun out, when he is backed up against the bar,” highlighting the moment Albisu felt compelled to act.

Florida judge looks through a VR headset to put himself in the defendant's shoes (self-defense scenario): pic.twitter.com/ehaTD4LCMz

— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) January 2, 2025

Albisu’s defense is based on self-defense. His attorney, Ken Padowitz, described the chaotic scene at the venue, explaining that Albisu’s wife and son were assaulted, with a DJ allegedly throwing a chair that injured the event planner’s wrist.

“They were able to get out, glass shattered everywhere, get out of this wedding facility, and wake up my client, Mike, who was sleeping, and he was told what happened at his wedding facility,” Padowitz recounted. He further explained that upon learning of the situation, Albisu instructed his wife to call emergency services and then took immediate action to protect his staff, property, and family from what he believed to be a dangerous situation caused by intoxicated guests. His goal was to deescalate the tension and end the party peacefully.

An artist used an Oculus Quest 2 VR headset to visualize the defendant’s experience. Padowitz emphasized the importance of this method, stating, “It may be the first time in the United States that virtual reality was admitted into a criminal hearing,” marking a potentially revolutionary approach to courtroom evidence presentation.

Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” law, enacted in 2005, removes the duty to retreat before using deadly force in self-defense. This law allows individuals to use force, including deadly force, if they reasonably believe it is necessary to prevent imminent death or great bodily harm to themselves or others, or to prevent the commission of a forcible felony. The law applies anywhere a person has a legal right to be, not just in their home, under what’s known as the “castle doctrine.” It provides immunity from criminal prosecution and civil liability if the use of force is deemed justified. However, this does not apply if the person using force was engaged in criminal activity or was the initial aggressor.

This technology uses images or videos taken when the event happened. If there’s enough data to recreate the incident accurately, it would put jurors or the judge in the defendant’s shoes.

This type of VR differs from what AI generates from some user’s input. It’s not as much of an “interpretation” as a 3D rendering based on crime scene evidence. In this case, the artist had existing images and videos to work off of.

The prosecutor or defense attorney could make objections just like any other evidence before the jury ever sees it, and not all video or testimony is allowed now. Evidentiary hearings are where this would get sorted out.

This is a promising new technology that should progress rapidly, and its development will be fascinating to watch.

Reports indicate that the white four-door pickup truck that was used crossed the border at Eagle Pass, Texas, two days before it plowed through a crowd on Bourbon Street.

The FBI believes the suspect is believed to be Shamsud Din Jabbar, 42, a U.S. citizen from Texas, who was killed in an exchange of gunfire with police.

The vehicle allegedly contained improvised explosives and had a black ISIS flag on the back. From the looks of the videos, the truck ran into a four-wheel man lift, and the subject exited the vehicle.

NEW FOOTAGE from New Orleans shows the moments Shamsud Din Jabbar steps out of his vehicle after crashing it and begins shooting.

The suspect was struck by police fire and declared dead at the scene. pic.twitter.com/CeduvaJw0f

— I Meme Therefore I Am ???????? (@ImMeme0) January 1, 2025

The FBI said the suspect is believed to be Shamsud Din Jabbar, 42, a U.S. citizen from Texas, and he was killed after police returned fire when he began shooting. CBS is reporting that he was wearing body armor and had a rifle.

#BREAKING: Law enforcement officials and other government agencies are investigating whether the New Orleans terrorist had a connection to ISIS. It’s also confirmed that he was wearing full military gear and body-armor. https://t.co/52NhSuIWCM pic.twitter.com/1dni3QMIl3

— Insider Wire (@InsiderWire) January 1, 2025

The vehicle allegedly contained improvised explosives and had a black ISIS flag on the back, which raised concerns about potential ties and affiliations with terrorist groups.

“We are aggressively running down all leads to identify any possible associates of the subject,” the FBI said.

NOPD Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick said, “This man was trying to run over as many people as he could.”

“He was hellbent on creating the carnage and damage that he did,” Kirkpatrick said. “This was not a DUI situation.”

According to a witness, the barricades were not up last night, and the New Orleans authorities were updating the series of security barricades installed in 2017 to deter terrorist attacks on Bourbon Street. Mid-December marked the start of the project, with a planned completion date of February.

These hydraulic steel barriers were installed on Borboun Street in New Orleans after an attack in France where the t*rrorist used his car as a weapon, k*lling 86.

They’re supposed to be raised between 5pm – 5am.

The city chose not to raise them last night according to a… pic.twitter.com/HExkeA8wvQ

— Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) January 1, 2025

In a statement issued by the New Orleans Police Department, they said, “After the vehicle came to a stop, the suspect reportedly opened fire on responding officers, who returned fire. The victim was struck and subsequently declared deceased on the scene. Further information on the suspect is not currently available for release.

Two NOPD officers were struck and injured in the exchange. Both were transported via EMS to a local hospital and were last listed in stable condition.”

The FBI’s statement said, “Weapons and a potential IED were located in the subject’s vehicle. Other potential IEDs were also located in the French Quarter. The FBI’s special agent bomb technicians are working with our law enforcement partners to determine if any of these devices are viable, and they will work to render those devices safe.”

Investigation into this incident is ongoing.

Former Congressman Adam Kinzinger and Democratic MO Senate nominee Lucas Kunce held an event where there were numerous safety concerns. Kunce was too close to the targets, and when he fired his rifle, metal fragments flew off the metal target, striking a reporter in the arm.

Great day at the range today with my friend @AdamKinzinger. We got to hang out with some union workers while exercising our freedom. Always have your first aid kit handy. Shrapnel can always fly when you hit a target like today, and you’ve got to be ready to go. We had four first… pic.twitter.com/Qu4YxfrtrU

— Lucas Kunce (@LucasKunceMO) October 23, 2024

Journalists Daniel Desrochers and Jonathan Shorman examined court records and found that Chad Everett Downs, who claimed to have set up the event, was facing felony charges. However, the current status of the case remains unclear. The issue is a felon is prohibited from owning a firearm, and “His ex-wife in a court filing earlier this month alleged the man owns or has access to guns in violation of his bond conditions.”

Downs claimed to be a firearm training counselor, and according to his reported statements, he was involved in setting up the range and owned the guns.

So Kunce’s stunt at the fake gun range – where he shot the reporter – was organized by a criminal? Who is not supposed to have access to firearms? What is going on here pic.twitter.com/TrNmMS7Cup

— Josh Hawley (@HawleyMO) October 24, 2024

In a written statement, Kunce said, “I was grateful for the opportunity to talk to union workers about our freedoms at the range,” “Safety is important to us which is why the range was set up and run by a NRA Training Counselor. But any time you are handling weapons, you need to be prepared. We acted quickly and I’m glad the reporter was okay and able to keep reporting.”

Kunce’s campaign did not share the name of the NRA training counselor, but Downs told The Star that he was the counselor.

From the Star: “Before the event, Downs spoke with a Star photojournalist, saying that the range was his but that the event was taking place at his neighbor’s residence. Downs said he lived “across the way” and said his neighbor allows him to shoot on the property. He showed The Star firearms that were on the table that belonged to him.

Missouri court records show that Downs was charged with 17 counts of felony perjury in August. He has been issued a criminal summons and waived his preliminary hearing. His ex-wife, in a court filing earlier this month, alleged the man owns or has access to guns in violation of his bond conditions. Downs said there are no restrictions on his firearm ownership or possession.”

“The allegations of perjury involve statements Downs made in a felony child abuse case, according to a probable cause affidavit.”

When The Star called the Ray County Circuit Clerk’s Office, the person who answered said the case had been dismissed. After a reporter identified himself, a voice was heard in the background instructing the person not to speak, saying, “That is not an open record.”
Downs asked The Star to contact his defense attorney, but the person who answered the phone said they couldn’t comment.

Kunce’s campaign did not respond to questions about Downs.

Recent incidents involving multiple tow trucks chasing, ramming, and even gunfire are concerning. Competition between tow truck drivers for the same tow has happened before.
Today: “A call came in of two tow trucks chasing and ramming into one another. 2 male Hispanics, one reported to have had a weapon. A squad car was on scene to witness the events.” There were at least four, maybe five, trucks involved.

Man, these accident chasers are really out here fighting over who gets to tow a ’98 Toyota Corolla—right in front of the cops. #chicagoscanner #chicago pic.twitter.com/iUU8hJX3MQ

— CHICAGO CRITTER (@ChicagoCritter) September 26, 2024

In January, “A tow truck driver opened fire on two competitors over a job, only to learn the hard way that the competitors were armed concealed-carry license holders, according to prosecutors.”

Then, in June, “Once the vehicles were stopped, the driver of the tow truck allegedly pulled out a gun, and the other driver, who has a valid concealed carry license (CCL), pulled out a gun and fired one shot, striking the tow truck driver.” (I’m not sure who was the guilty party in this one.)

It’s clear that the focus should be on individual responsibility rather than blaming the object used. Chicago has some of the strictest gun control laws in the country, and lawmakers can’t keep blaming the weapon.

I bet you’ve never seen a dog read his rights before the police questioned him, though.

I bet you’ve never seen a dog Mirandized before???? pic.twitter.com/Zx7wexGoUB

— no context memes (@weirddalle) September 22, 2024

Minrande Right Include

• Right to Remain Silent: “You have the right to remain silent.”
• Anything You Say Can Be Used Against You: “Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law.”
• Right to an Attorney: “You have the right to an attorney.”
• Appointment of an Attorney if You Cannot Afford One: “If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you.”

The warning is to ensure that whatever you say is voluntary, protecting your Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination and your Sixth Amendment right to an attorney.

I bet for a dog treat, he would have given in and talked.

What is the 5th Amendment?

The 5th Amendment is part of the Bill of Rights, a collection of the first ten amendments to the Constitution. It protects you from self-incrimination, meaning you don’t have to say anything that could get you into legal trouble.

In simpler terms, no one can force you to testify against yourself. When interacting with law enforcement, this is a big deal because what you say can and will be used against you in court. By staying silent, you’re protecting yourself from unintentionally giving information that might be misunderstood or twisted.

Origin of the Miranda Warning

Miranda rights stem from Miranda v. Arizona, a 1966 U.S. Supreme Court case. Law enforcement officers arrested Ernesto Miranda and charged him with kidnapping and rape. After hours of interrogation, Miranda confessed, but the police did not inform him of his right to remain silent or to an attorney. Initially, the courts upheld his conviction, but upon appeal, the Supreme Court ruled that his statements to the police could not be used as evidence against him because they had not informed him of his rights.

When Should You Use Your Right to Remain Silent?

Many people feel the urge to explain themselves or talk their way out of a situation. It’s natural! But sometimes, the more you talk, the more complicated things get.

For example, imagine you’re carrying a firearm legally, but you get pulled over for a traffic violation. The officer might ask you questions about your gun. Now, while you should comply with legal requirements to disclose your firearm, but you’re uncertain about why he pulled you over, it’s okay to invoke your right to remain silent politely. Simply say something like, “I’m going to remain silent and would like to speak to my attorney.”

Don’t be rude or confrontational; instead, be respectful. It’s about protecting your legal rights, not avoiding responsibility.

Why Is the Right to Remain Silent So Important?

This right isn’t about hiding anything or “acting guilty.” Under stress, we all make mistakes, and it’s easy to misstate facts or say things out of order.

Imagine being in a high-pressure situation where the police ask rapid-fire questions. You might not remember every detail clearly, but if you answer incorrectly, even by accident, it can lead to trouble. The 5th Amendment allows you to avoid that risk by staying quiet until you’ve had time to think clearly and talk with an attorney.

How Does This Apply to Firearm Owners?

If you’re ever involved in a self-defense incident, adrenaline and stress can cause you to speak without thinking. That’s why I always tell people: if you’re ever involved in a shooting, talk as little as possible at the scene. Cooperate with law enforcement by identifying yourself and stating you were defending yourself. Make sure they are aware of any evidence that may benefit you later, like someone who recorded what happened, but that is it for now. This can make an enormous difference in how things play out legally for you.

How to Invoke Your Right to Remain Silent

It’s easy to invoke your 5th Amendment rights. You simply need to state that you want to remain silent and consult an attorney. Something as simple as “I want to speak with my lawyer before I answer questions” will work. Once you do that, law enforcement must stop questioning you until you have legal counsel present.

Your 5th Amendment right to remain silent. Miranda rights are one of the most important tools for protecting yourself, especially as a responsible gun owner. It’s not about avoiding accountability; it’s about ensuring you’re treated fairly and legally. Remember, in high-stress situations, the less you say, the better.

Always be polite, comply with the law, and know when to stop talking. You have the right to protect yourself, both physically and legally.

Requirements for Obtaining a FOID Card:

• Age: Applicants must be at least 21 years old.
• Background Check: The Illinois State Police will check against the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). Disqualifications include felony convictions, certain misdemeanors, or being subject to an order of protection.
• Application Process: You must submit fingerprints via an online or paper application. A FOID card costs $10 and is valid for ten years.
• Renewal: Since January 1, 2022, a FOID card is typically valid for ten years. If you’ve submitted fingerprints, there’s an automatic renewal process, simplifying the renewal by extending your card’s validity upon a firearm transaction if your background check remains clear. If you don’t buy a firearm, you must renew online. However, the card has no expiration date printed on it, so you’ll need to watch the website to find out when your renewal is due.
• Non-Resident Exemption: An interesting aspect is that non-Illinois residents with a valid firearm permit from their state are exempt from needing a FOID card in Illinois.

Can you carry a gun in Illinois with a FOID card?

You can not carry a gun in Illinois with just a FOID. You must take a 16-hour class and then apply for a concealed carry license (CCL).

“(430 ILCS 65/2) (from Ch. 38, par. 83-2)
(a) (1) No person may acquire or possess any firearm, stun gun, or taser within this State without having in his or her possession a Firearm Owner’s Identification Card previously issued in his or her name by the Illinois State Police under the provisions of this Act.
(2) No person may acquire or possess firearm ammunition within this State without having in his or her possession a Firearm Owner’s Identification Card ……”

FOID Legal Implications and Controversies:

The FOID card requirement has faced legal challenges, with arguments over its infringement on Second Amendment rights. Possessing a firearm or even ammunition without a valid FOID card in Illinois can lead to criminal charges, and most firearm owners argue it’s an unnecessary burden on law-abiding citizens.

The FOID card is unique to Illinois law. An Illinois Circuit Court Judge ruled that the requirement for possessing a Firearm Owner’s Identification Card to possess a gun in the home is unconstitutional, but for now, the state has not changed the law to comply.

None of those arrested live locally, and here’s some information on 16 of them:

Sept – Jalen Littleton 19 Indiana
Sept – Darron Prince 36 Joliet
Sept – Ronald Richardson 34 Chicago
Oct – Cornelius Clark Jr 35 Chicago
Dec – Demarveus Butler 19 Michigan City (same incident)
Dec – Terrance Reed 27 Chicago (same incident)
Dec – Rubin Tart 24 Chicago (same incident)
Dec – Dequan J. Dent Davis 26 Calumet City
April – Leroy Slater 37 Hazel Crest
Feb – Antwan Donete Lee 31 Chicago
Feb – Joshua Ramon Menson 34 Gary
March –  Clarence Lamont Massey Jr. 24 Chicago
March –  Dijon Lane 34 Blue Island
March- Tavell Jackson 44 Maywood
July – Camarion Jai Cobbins 19 Huntsville, Alabama
July – Jeremy Boykins 36 East Chicago, Indiana

The city website lists Naperville, Illinois, as one of the safest cities in the nation.

“In 2022 and 2023, MoneyGeek named Naperville the safest city in America. In 2020, Naperville was ranked No. 1 on SafeWise’s America’s Safest Cities to Raise a Child report, which ranks safety by low property crimes, violent crimes, and the number of sex offenders.”

Illinois has some of the strictest firearm laws in the country, and a Firearm Owners Identification (FOID) card is required just to purchase ammunition.

Since none of these people live anywhere close, why pick this spot? Is it that great of a driving range….

On Sunday evening, four people suffered stab wounds within hours because of this incident and another one. A few weeks ago, fights broke out, and they shot a man in the parking lot.

Footage of the incident at Montrose Beach between illegal Venezuelans where shots were fired injuring two

I’m the video you can hear in the background at least 3 shots being fired #Chicago https://t.co/OmxpfRzKal pic.twitter.com/X0jtDi3ob9

— Goofies Of Chicago (@Chicago_Goofies) July 22, 2024

All groups, including Hispanics, have enjoyed this beach for years, and there have rarely been issues until recently.

A retired suburban police chief, Thomas Weitzel, said, “Can we all agree that the mayor’s summer safety plan was purely for political reasons? It’s harmful. How long can police leadership continue to support this?”

Before, Mayor Johnson blamed the violence on Nixon he said it was the former mayor’s fault.

Self-defense shootings are up this year in Chicago, and it’s clear that CCL holders are not the ones breaking the law.