How Many Lives Were Saved?

We talk often about how firearms can save lives. Usually we mean the victims of the crime. In this case, we will never know if the armed robber was only after money or if he had other motives. The workers of the store were definitely in jeopardy. So were the patrons; as the criminal didn’t run out the door but deeper into the store.

PINCH, W.Va. – A pharmacist in Pinch who was forced to make an incredibly difficult decision when an armed robbery turned deadly is speaking out and sharing how his faith is helping him through the ordeal.

Don Radcliff spoke with Eyewitness News Reporter Kennie Bass and said he is taking no joy in what happened Wednesday. Radcliff said he does not consider himself a hero, even though his actions may have saved the lives of his co-workers and customers when he shot an armed man at Good Family Pharmacy in Pinch.

Eight people were inside the pharmacy in Pinch when the suspect came through the door about 9:45 a.m.

I think we often overlook the bigger picture.

Radcliff said he has received tremendous support from his family and friends, but also from his faith. Radcliff shared Thursday’s devotion from his daily devotional.

“Thursday, February 19th, John 10, 7 to 18, ‘A thief comes only to steal and to kill and destroy. I have come so that they may have life and have it in abundance.’ That’s verse 10,” Radcliff said. “Abundance isn’t God’s provision for me to live in luxury; it’s his provision for me to help others live.”
(emphasis mine)

But what about the people not directly involved?

How about the number of people who might not get medicine because the store either closed (a lot of people) or had to raise prices to make up for the stolen money or drugs? Or pay much higher premiums.

How about the people the pharmacist might be able to help through his abundance –his charitable efforts; tithing, donations to food pantries, etc?

How about the people the pharmacist might touch in his daily walk? Instead of being out in the community possibly touching lives and influencing people, it is likely he would have to spend more time in the store just to keep it open.

So to those who tell us “Just give them what they want” — think of the lives that could be affected because ‘its just money’.

Please join the discussion.