It turns out the kid himself has some thoughts on this.[1] (I'm linking to Noir's summary not because I agree with him on gun rights or whatever else, but just

It turns out the kid himself has some thoughts on this.[1] (I'm linking to Noir's summary not because I agree with him on gun rights or whatever else, but just because he has a concise and factual argument, using the kid's own words from before the fact to cast light on intent and his state of mind, as well as the chaotic events later where he was being chased by a mob and shot at.) I think the boy made a very unfortunate decision to go out there, but the actions of the mob are self-evident justification for why he was carrying a weapon. If he wasn't, he likely would be dead or severely injured today. He pretty clearly extinguishes a dumpster fire that several rioters were pushing toward a set of gas pumps. This enraged the mob, leading them to chase him and even start shooting at or around him. He only fired when he was cornered (whether surrounded by the mob or even literally on his back on the ground), and only at those who were actually attacking him. [1]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NSU9ZvnudFE&t=307s&bpctr=1600143898 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NSU9ZvnudFE&t=307s&bpctr=160...