TAMPA, FL– Authorities in Tampa are commending several security guards at a gentlemen’s club who prevented an armed man in a devil mask from entering the club and harming other people.
The incident occurred Sunday at Mons Venus at 2040 N Dale Mabry Highway.
Tampa Police say 44-year-old Michael Rudman attempted to enter the club around 1:15 a.m. wearing a devil mask, while holding a gun in one hand and a flashlight in the other.
Once Rudman stepped towards the door, a security guard noticed the gun and knocked it out of his hand.
Rudman and three security guards became involved in a struggle causing the gun to go off and shoot into the door.
The security guard was then able to subdue Rudman until authorities arrived.
One of the security guards was injured during the struggle but no other injuries were reported.
Police reported that they found two loaded magazines in Rudman’s pockets, and additional ammunition, knives, and firearm accessories elsewhere.
He also had the words “Kill” and “Darkk One” written on his arms.
“There is no question that the security guards who disarmed this suspect saved dozens of lives through their heroic acts, 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,” said Interim Chief Lee Bercaw. “We will continue to actively and thoroughly investigate this case to get a better understanding of what led up to this thwarted incident.”
Rudman faces charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and purchasing, possessing, or receiving a firearm while under a risk protection order (RPO).