James Williams, a 36-year-old from Antioch, was a gas station clerk who was shot and killed last Saturday as he worked at the Chevron station at 2701 Contra Loma Blvd. in Antioch.
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In a press conference Wednesday night, we learned details of what happened. AntiochpPolice say two males walked into the unlocked Chevron store around 2 a.m. and then robbed the place.
EXCLUSIVE UPDATE: Coworker opens up after Antioch gas station clerk killed during 'botched' robbery
"James Williams chased after the suspects in the parking lot and he shot towards both of the suspects," said Ashley Crandell, public information officer with the Antioch Police Department.
That likely happened moments after Williams, the clerk, told his coworker Annette Matamoroz this.
"He said somebody is trying to rob us stay here!"
Police say Williams had a gun and fired at the two men running from the store.
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"He did hit one of the suspects, 20-year-old Ronald Jackson Jr., in the leg," said Crandell.
Officers say Jackson fired back though, striking Williams in the chest and the leg. One of those shots proving to be fatal.
Police say Jackson, who is in their custody at the hospital, and another man who has not been caught, stole cash and cigar papers.
While police haven't said how much money was taken, Matamoroz says less than $150 is kept in the register at all times.
As for charges against Jackson, "The case was presented to the district attorney's office and they filed robbery, possession of stolen property, and a firearm enhancement on Mr. Jackson Jr.," said Crandell.
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In a press release, the Antioch Police Department says the DA's office has "declined to charge him with murder," referring to the suspect charges. We reached out to the DA's office for clarification but have yet to hear back.
This is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Duffy at 925-779-6890 or email: aduffy@antiochca.gov. You can also text-a-tip to 274637 (CRIMES) using the keyword.