Woman injured in Circle K shootout with would-be robber, police believe crime of 'opportunity'

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- A woman was injured in a dramatic shootout with a would-be robber inside an Oak Forest Circle K Sunday morning.

According to the Houston Police Department, the incident happened at about 11 a.m. inside the North Shepherd Drive and Pinemont Drive store.

HPD said the woman customer pulled out a "large wad of cash" to pay when a man lunged at her.

HPD Sgt. Dunn said a shoving match ensued between the pair and the man shot the woman at least twice.

The woman, according to Dunn, pulled out her own gun and returned fire. Her actions reportedly prompted the man to drop his gun and run off.

The woman, according to police, is expected to survive. She was taken to a nearby hospital where she underwent surgery.

The gunman was unsuccessful in his attempt to obtain the woman's cash, according to Dunn.

As of Monday, investigators confirmed they are still searching for the suspect.

Dunn said preliminary information leads police to believe the incident was a crime of "opportunity."

He noted, "It does not appear to be a very common thing. In my time in robbery, 11 a.m. on a Sunday usually would be a very safe time."