Cops: Robbery victim's lighter deflects bullet

A 22-year-old robbery victim avoided serious injury Monday when a bullet fired at him was deflected by a cigarette lighter in his pocket, police said.

The victim suffered only a contusion to his leg.

Nassau County police said the incident occurred in Hempstead at 9:21 p.m. Monday.

Police said the 22-year-old man was on Morrell Avenue near Morton Street when he was approached by three men who tried to rob him. The man ran, police said, and was fired at by one of the suspects.

“The bullet hit a lighter the victim had in his pocket, causing it to deflect,” police said.

The victim was taken to a local hospital for treatment.

No other details were immediately available.

Police are asking anyone with information regarding the incident to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS. All calls will remain confidential.