Police say they are searching for a man who allegedly shot an innocent bystander while chasing a teenager into a nearby Highbridge bodega.

Officials say the owner of that bodega, Edward Lara, is now being hailed as a hero. On Monday night, he helped that teen being chased into his business by a group of men by standing guard at his door with an iron stick.

The men chasing the teen tried to get in a couple of times, but were not able to.

The incident was eerily comparable to the events leading up to the death of Lesandro "Junior" Guzman Feliz back in June.

Lara says he was not willing to let history repeat itself this time. He says he couldn't get "Junior" off his mind when the teen ran into his store begging for help.

People in the neighborhood thanked Lara and his employees for stepping in and keeping the teen safe.

Lawmakers proposed in July the Junior Law, which would require small businesses to be safe havens for minors in danger.

Officials say one of the suspects in this incident is responsible for shooting a 56-year-old bystander in the leg. News 12 is told that shooting occurred around 6 p.m. and is directly connected to the teen that was fleeing.

The teenager and bystander are both doing OK. Police ask anyone with more information to contact them immediately.

Fernando Mateo, of the Bodega Association, says although Lara's actions were heroic, not every bodega owner is capable of taking matters into their own hands -- especially when gangs are involved.

Years back, the Bodega Association had pushed for gun permits for store owners who qualified. However, he says many were deterred by the rigorous and lengthy process. He says other protection measures should be considered, such as allowing bodega owners to receive training on how to use a Taser.