An attempted armed robbery in Manheim this morning left one suspect dead, and another at large.

Police say the manager of the Power Pro Battery Company on South Penn Street was opening the store this morning when he was approached by two men wearing bandanas over their faces. One was carrying a semi-automatic weapon, which police say he pointed at the manager.

The manager, who had a permit to carry a concealed weapon, fired two shots, hitting the armed suspect in the wrist and the chest.

Both suspects fled, and the one that was shot collapsed two blocks away and was taken to the hospital where he died.  He's been identified as 19-year-old Kevin Lee Smith of Lancaster.

Police say the manager feared for his life and took the necessary steps to protect himself. Police also say they believe the business was targeted.

"It seems to me he had very good reason to believe his life was in danger, and that he needed to defend himself in order to go home at the end of the day," said Manheim Police Chief Barry Weidman.

Police say the semi-automatic assault weapon used by the suspects can hold up to 30 bullets, and can be fired as fast as the trigger can be pulled.

The owner of the battery company says the manager had armed himself after a previous hold-up on the clock.

"You're not a hero when you shoot somebody, but he saved his own life," said owner John Roads.  "Carrying a legal sidearm today saved his life, and I'm thankful for that - he's a good man."

The second suspect got away, but there is surveillance video of the entire incident. Police say the other suspect is either Hispanic or white, about 5 feet 8 inches with a solid build.

 Anyone with information is asked to call the Manheim Police Department right away.