Robbery #1 happens a little after 1:00 a.m. on November 17, 2001. The robber points a gun at the victim's stomach and says "Give me the money." The victim hands over his wallet, and the robber departs.
Robbery #2 happens a little after 1:30 a.m. that same day. The robber points a gun at the victim's stomach and says "Give me your money." The victims hands over her wallet and purse. At the same time, a second robber (alongside the first) says to the second victim "Freeze . . . this is a stickup." Victim #2 doesn't believe Robber #2, and so (boldly) says "Show me the weapon." At which point -- and I love this -- Victim #1 says to Victim #2 "Quit being an effin' smartass and give him the money." Robber #2 then pulls out his gun and points it at Victim #2's stomach. Robber #2 gets $160 from Victim #2's pockets and both robbers run off.
Robbery #3 happens between 1:30 a.m. and 2:00 a.m. that same morning. The robber points a gun at the victim's stomach and says "Give me your f***ing wallet." Sounds familiar, no? Except listen to what the victim says this time. He says: "No." The robber repeats his demand. The victim again says: "No." The robber then turns to the woman who's with the victim, points the gun at her, and demands her purse. She gives it up. Then the robber goes back to the victim and twice again demands his wallet, pointing the gun at him each time. To which the victim again consistently responds: "No."
So what does the robber do? After the victim's final refusal, the robber shoots the victim in the chest. The victim -- who was the son of a California state senator -- dies four hours later at the hospital.
Four victims relinquish their money. All live. One refuses. He dies.
Example No. 1000 of the modern day truism: Give it up when you have to. It's only money. It's not worth your life.
