"There is no question that the security guards who disarmed this suspect saved dozens of lives through their heroic acts," Tampa police said.
The actions of the bouncers have been labeled "heroic," with some suggesting they prevented the alleged gunman, 44-year-old Michael Rudman, from carrying out a mass shooting in the crowded establishment.
Rudman was subsequently arrested and hit with a slew of charges, including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, battery, and aggravated battery with a deadly weapon.
According to the Tampa Police, Rudman arrived at the Mons Venus strip club around 1:15 am on Sunday, and proceeded to walk towards the entrance with a gun in one hand and a flashlight in the other.
A security guard, 55-year-old Manuel Anthony Resto, jumped into action upon seeing the firearm, knocking it out of Rudman's hand. During the struggle, a single shot was fired, striking the front door. Resto and another bouncer were able to subdue Rudman until police arrived, at which point he was arrested and his truck was searched.
Police found additional ammunition, knives, and firearm accessories in Rudman's vehicle, as well as two fully loaded magazines in his pockets. Authorities have yet to determine a motive, however Rudman was spotted at the club the previous night.
In an interview with FOX News, Resto explained that he first thought the masked man was playing a prank on him, but knew the situation was serious when he saw the gun. "I was waiting for the punch line," he said, "then all of a sudden he came right up to me, and he was a very big man. Very big. I saw him raise his hand and he had a gun."
Resto's actions, as well as those of his colleagues who helped hold Rudman down until cops arrived, were lauded by law enforcement.
"There is no question that the security guards who disarmed this suspect saved dozens of lives through their heroic acts," Tampa Police Department Interim Chief Lee Bercaw said, "and I am thankful that our officers were able to take this individual into custody before he had the chance to carry out whatever he had planned."
In addition to the aforementioned charges, Rudman also faces one count for purchasing, possessing, or receiving a firearm while under a risk protection order.
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