Several thieves tried to rob a man, but they chose the wrong victim, as the target was a retired Oakland police captain with a gun.

The retired captain, Ersie Joyner, was getting the gas when several attackers tried to rob him. The captain is well known in the Bay Area as he implemented a successful anti-violence program and has over 28 years of experience in the force.

Sadly, not even someone as admirable as Joyner can be spared from violence. The attack was recorded by surveillance cameras, showing three thieves approaching a man at gunpoint at a Chevron gas station in West Oakland.

Joyner was ready to defend himself, and when one of the thieves tried to take away his car keys, the armed officer opened fire.

The disturbing graphic video shows Joyner shooting and killing one attacker and going for the second. One of the two remains suspects managed to shoot him several times.

The two criminals left since a getaway driver was waiting for them. They left the fourth suspect behind.

The shot suspect was dead at the scene. Luckily, Joyner stayed alive.

The police came to the scene quickly as they were notified about the shooting via the ShotSpotter system. This system notifies the police about gunshots via acoustic sensors.

After serving three decades in the force, Joyner almost lost his life to the same people he fought during his career. Luckily, he was taken to the hospital and survived the attack.

During the media conference, Oakland Police Chief LeRonne Armstrong confirmed that Joyner was legally permitted to carry a firearm. Armstrong sent a strong message, saying:

"This highlights the violence that we've seen in this city this entire year. We have seen so many tragic situations. We have seen so many people lose their lives as a result of violence. This again shows us how brazen individuals involved in this activity can be."

Though this happened in autumn 2021, the situation only worsened with time. This puts us in dangerous territory, with many defending the right to carry guns, but at the same time, those same guns easily end up in the wrong hands.

The surviving trio of thieves was arrested and awaiting trial.

Watch the video with caution, as it is graphic content: