2 convicted felons killed in Lancaster shootout

LANCASTER, S.C. (AP) — Authorities say two convicted felons who were banned from owning guns shot each other to death during a robbery attempt in Lancaster County.

Investigators said 39-year-old Stephen Westbrook went to a home in Lancaster on Wednesday night looking to rob someone of their drugs.

Deputies say 25-year-old Javon Belk started firing at Westbrook during the robbery, and he shot back. Both men were struck and killed.

Sheriff Barry Faile says both of the dead men had long histories of violent crimes and drug charges. He says when someone leads a life of crime and drugs, tragedies like this are bound to occur.