MARIETTA, GA — A violent attempted carjacking at a gas station in Marietta was stopped by a fast-acting armed citizen, preventing further harm and leading to the suspect’s arrest.
The incident began when Teresa Mayorkas exited a gas station on Franklin Gateway and was suddenly attacked by a man wielding a piece of a metal bed frame. The assailant, later identified as 32-year-old Rico Riley, demanded her car and struck her with the makeshift weapon. Mayorkas screamed for help, but no one in the immediate vicinity of the gas station intervened.
Across the street, Gary and Anna Edwards were just leaving a Cracker Barrel restaurant when they heard Mayorkas’ cries. Gary Edwards saw the attacker on top of the woman and sprinted across the road to help. He tackled Riley off of Mayorkas, and the two struggled briefly on the ground. His intervention gave Mayorkas the opportunity to escape to safety.
Riley then fled on foot toward a nearby intersection, where he attempted to carjack a second vehicle occupied by a couple and their child. Edwards continued his pursuit and was met by his wife Anna at the roadside, who handed him her legally carried firearm. Edwards approached the suspect as he tried to enter the vehicle and held him at gunpoint. Riley complied, lay face down, and pleaded to be released until police arrived and took him into custody.
Police arrested Riley, who now faces multiple charges stemming from the assaults and attempted carjackings. Officials praised the quick and courageous actions of the Edwards, calling the outcome “fantastic” while reminding the public that such interventions carry serious risk. Law enforcement emphasized that while help is appreciated, the decision to intervene physically or with a firearm must be made with full awareness of the dangers involved.
This incident underscores the importance of both readiness and restraint when responding to violent situations. Gary Edwards’ willingness to act undoubtedly prevented further harm, but his actions also highlight critical considerations for anyone who chooses to get involved. If things go physical, are you prepared for a hand-to-hand struggle? Are you trained to retain control of your firearm in close quarters? These are questions every armed citizen should consider long before a crisis unfolds. Acting decisively is commendable, but acting wisely and safely is essential.
I appreciate that you look at the things that could go wrong in an intervention, and encourage people to think, and not just rush in.