Charges for 2 Teens in Pa. Bicyclist Attack

Robbery victim fought back during attack killing 1 teen, injuring another: prosecutor

Authorities say they've filed assault charges against two teens over a confrontation with a Pennsylvania bicyclist who shot and wounded one of teens and killed a third.

A 65-year-old man riding his bicycle along a Berks County trail became the target of three teenage boys looking to allegedly mug him Jan. 25, according to authorities.

In a matter of moments the teens became the target of the cyclist, according to Cumru Township Police.

The three teens had cut school and were set on robbing people -- having already attacked two elderly men -- when they came upon the 65-year-old riding on the Thun Trail, according to Berks County District Attorney John T. Adams.

The cyclist was near the Bertolet Fishing Dock at S First Avenue and Chestnut Street in West Reading, Pa. around 11 a.m. when he was attacked, police said.

Adams picks it up from here:

"One of the juveniles punched the bike rider in the face, knocking him off his bike. Julius Johnson ran up to bike rider and kicked him."

That was when the 65-year-old pulled out a gun and shot, officials said.

Adams says the bicyclist acted in self-defense when he opened fire, killing 16-year-old Julius Johnson.

Prosecutors say one of the charged teens is on house arrest while recovering from a bullet wound to his neck sustained during the robbery.

The two charged teens await juvenile court hearings scheduled for next week, the Reading Eagle reported Wednesday.

No charges were filed against the shooter, officials said.

"Well I do not condone violence, the bike rider had no choice," Adams said.


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