Robber Dies After Bullet Fired by Partner Ricochets Off Victim's Face
Police in San Francisco say a teen robbery suspect was accidentally killed by his alleged accomplice when a bullet from the latter's gun struck the former after ricocheting off their victim's face.
Authorities say 16-year-old Clifton Chatman was among a group of muggers who surrounded the unnamed victim on the night of December 14 and demanded his cellphone.
One of the robbers pulled out a handgun while the others went through the victim's belongings in search of other valuables.
Though the victim had complied with all his assailants' demands, the teen holding the gun shot him anyway.
However, in a suprising twist of fate, the bullet fired at the man bounced off his face and reportedly struck Chatman, killing him on the spot.
The teens quickly dispersed, leaving both the victim and Chatman at the crime scene.
Officers arrived shortly thereafter and transported the victim to a nearby hospital, where he was treated for his injuries and released.
Chatman was pronounced dead at the scene.
The alleged shooter, who is also 16, has since been arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted robbery. His name is being withheld because he's a juvenile.
