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Boardman police investigating shooting, robbery at township business
By Bruce Walton
BOARDMAN
Police are investigating an attempted robbery at gunpoint that went bad for the suspect after his intended victim shot him in the head.
Officers responded to the shooting Friday morning at 3 Thirty Elite Sports and Performance Center, 859 E. Midlothian Blvd.
A gym employee initially told Youngstown police, who also responded, that a man attempted to rob him and two witnesses about 1 a.m., according to a police report. The gym is in the township near the city border.
The employee said he shot the man in the head after exchanging gunfire. The man was later identified as Anthony Anderson, 30, of Woodview Avenue, Boardman.
Officers reportedly approached where Anderson was lying. He then reached for a gun near him and pointed it at the front of the gym. Officers were able to detain and secure Anderson until an ambulance arrived, taking him to St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital.
Officers found suspected heroin, $230 in cash and marijuana on Anderson, who is reportedly in critical condition.
After questioning, the employee and two witnesses told police Anderson was with them for several hours until he attempted to rob them. That is when the employee pulled out his gun and began shooting.
Police released the intended victim and witnesses after questioning.
Police Chief Jack Nichols said they are hoping Anderson recovers enough so they can get a clearer narrative.
“We still want to talk to [Anderson] to get his side of the story,” he said.