A Worcester store clerk shot a suspect who tried to rob him at knifepoint Saturday night, Worcester police said.

Officers were called to 49 Vernon St. around 8:40 p.m. for a report of a man on the sidewalk suffering from gunshot wounds. When they arrived the 26-year-old was already being treated for three wounds by Worcester EMS.

The ambulance crew happened to be driving by and spotted the man on the sidewalk, police said.

"Police were told that the male that was shot had just attempted to rob the No Name store at knifepoint and was shot by the clerk," police said.

Officers went inside the store and spotted a large knife on the counter. Investigators learned the suspect, Juan Ahorrio of Worcester, went into the store with a knife.

Ahorrio allegedly went up behind a female customer and wrapped his arm around her neck.

"Fearing for the customer's safety the clerk produced his personal firearm," police said. "At this time the customer fell to the ground."

The clerk fired three shots at the suspect. Ahorrio dropped the knife and ran outside. The clerk chased the suspect and ordered him to the ground. He then returned inside to check on his customers, police said.

The two female customers and the clerk were not hurt during the attempted robbery and subsequent shooting, police said.

"Detectives confiscated the weapon and the clerk's license to carry while the investigation continues," police said.

Ahorrio, who received non life-threatening injuries, was charged with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, assault with a dangerous weapon and armed assault with intent to rob.