A level-headed Air Force veteran thwarted a would-be thief’s attempt to rob his Omaha jewelry store by brandishing his handgun and sending the suspect running. Surveillance footage captured inside Sidrony Jewelers last Saturday shows a black-clad robber smashing one of the store’s glass windows with a rock to let himself inside. The criminal didn’t anticipate that anyone would be inside – let alone that they would be military-trained. Another camera captures the store’s owner, Garrett Peddicord, entering from a back room, leveling a pistol at the other person. Peddicord, who typically carries a firearm on his waist, was prepared to defend his business even without his gun. Seeing the gun, the masked man raises his arms and turns tail and runs, panicked, back through the broken window. The owner foiled the robber’s attempt in under two minutes.
Peddicord was proud that he was able to defend his business, and he credits his military training and experience for his quick thinking and decisive actions. Having served in the Air Force for three years, including one year in Afghanistan, he expressed gratitude for the training and practice he underwent in carrying a firearm responsibly. Despite the situation escalating quickly, Peddicord remained calm and was able to deter the intruder by simply brandishing his gun. In an interview with KETV, Peddicord emphasized that the gun is just one of many tools he has in his store, and he hopes to never have to use it. The surveillance footage captured the entire incident, showing how Peddicord reacted swiftly and effectively to protect his business.
The thief, who attempted to steal from the jewelry store, did not anticipate encountering an armed individual like Peddicord. After breaking into the store, the masked intruder was caught off guard by Peddicord’s presence and his handgun. In a moment of panic, the would-be robber quickly retreated through the broken window, abandoning his criminal plans. Despite the unsuccessful robbery attempt, the suspect has not yet been identified or apprehended by law enforcement. The Omaha Police Department is continuing its investigation to locate and arrest the suspect responsible for the break-in at Sidrony Jewelers. Peddicord’s actions serve as a reminder of the importance of being prepared for unexpected situations and the value of having the necessary skills and training to protect oneself and others.
The incident at Sidrony Jewelers highlights the increase in gun thefts from cars over the past decade, as indicated by FBI data. Peddicord’s decision to carry a firearm on his person, even after hours, showcases his commitment to ensuring the safety and security of his business. Despite the potential risks associated with carrying a gun, Peddicord emphasized the importance of responsible gun ownership and the role it played in preventing the robbery. The surveillance footage captured Peddicord’s quick thinking and decisive action, leading to the would-be thief fleeing the scene. As the investigation into the break-in continues, Peddicord’s actions serve as an example of how proper training and preparation can make a difference in potentially dangerous situations.
Peddicord’s military background and experience undoubtedly played a significant role in his ability to respond effectively to the attempted robbery. Having been deployed for three years, including a year in Afghanistan, Peddicord’s training and skills were put to the test during the incident at his jewelry store. His quick reaction to the intruder, combined with his calm demeanor and readiness to defend his business, exemplify the qualities instilled in him during his time in the Air Force. Peddicord’s actions serve as a testament to the value of military training and the importance of being prepared for unexpected events, whether in a combat zone or in a civilian setting. As the investigation continues, Peddicord’s story serves as a reminder of the courage and resilience displayed by veterans in the face of adversity.
In conclusion, the attempted robbery at Sidrony Jewelers was thwarted by the quick thinking and decisive actions of Garrett Peddicord, an Air Force veteran with military training. Peddicord’s ability to deter the would-be thief by brandishing his handgun exemplifies the importance of being prepared for unexpected situations and the value of responsible gun ownership. Despite the increase in gun thefts from cars over the past decade, Peddicord’s actions highlight the benefits of having the necessary skills and training to protect oneself and others. As the investigation into the break-in continues, Peddicord’s story serves as a reminder of the courage and resilience displayed by veterans in the face of adversity.
