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CNN Live Today

California Department Store Clerk Hailed as Hero

Aired May 31, 2002 - 12:51   ET

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.


THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
CAROL LIN, CNN ANCHOR: In California, a department store clerk is being hailed as a hero. Two gunmen walked into a Kmart store earlier this week. And when the bullets began to fly, the clerk's actions probably saved a child's life. Ethan Harp from CNN affiliate KCRA has the story.

(BEGIN VIDEOTAPE)

ETHAN HARP, KCRA REPORTER (voice-over): Memorial Day, 9:30 p.m.: Two masked gunmen walk into Kmart on Mariposa (ph) Road, attacking a store manager, then jumping over the counter and grabbing cash. And putting his hands up on the right is 17-year-old Francisco Ferreyra.

Seconds later, just after the robbers walk out, a woman and little girl walk in. Then Francisco goes to the door to see which way the men are running off. Suddenly, gunshots. Watch as he scoops up the child.

FRANCISCO FERREYRA, KMART CLERK: I started walking back, telling them which way they are going. They are going to Montezuma (ph) School. Then I look back again after he comes out. She leaves her daughter. Then I see her and I picked up and just -- because, bullets get lost. It can hit something, then shoot back another direction.

HARP: If it sounds like something anyone would do, ask Francisco's girlfriend, who we showed the tape to.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: It's kind of scary. I don't know what I would have done if I would have been there. I think I just would have freaked.

HARP (on camera): Were they aiming at you?

FERREYRA: Yes. I didn't even see her until I felt her. And then I just picked her up. It was like an instant. Why not? It's a little kid, you know what I mean? I wouldn't want a bullet in my sister.

HARP (voice-over): Police released the video knowing the thieves won't be recognized, but hoping they will brag about their crime to someone who turns them in. One person who isn't bragging is Francisco.

FERREYRA: It's a child. She's got a longer life than me.

HARP: Ethan Harp for CNN, Stockton, California.

(END VIDEOTAPE)

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