DES MOINES (AP) - A pizza delivery driver who used his own gun to shoot an alleged robber says he has received an outpouring of support from people who applaud his decision.

James William Spiers III, 38, of Des Moines, fired multiple shots at a man who is accused of putting a gun to his head after Spiers delivered a pizza to an apartment complex on the city's southeast side last week.

The suspect, Kenneth Jimmerson, 19, was arrested after he called for help. He suffered at least three gunshot wounds and was charged with first-degree robbery. His fiance, Melanie Stout, 18, who allegedly called in the pizza order, was charged with conspiracy.

Spiers, who works for Pizza Hut, said it's the first time in 10 years of delivering pizzas that he has been robbed.

"Anytime you're involved in delivery, I suppose you're an easy target," he said.

Spiers, who has a valid handgun permit, was suspended after the shooting because the company prohibits employees from carrying guns. He said he doesn't know his status with the company and is "just taking some time off, trying to cool things down.

"I just know that, given what happened, it's not likely I'll have a job anyway," he said.

Police said that officers found Spiers with both handguns when they arrived. Jimmerson had already fled the scene, police said.

Spiers defended his decision to shoot the alleged robber.

"The incident wasn't something quick and simple. I did not just take the gun out of the guy's hand and shoot him with it. It was a long ordeal, or it felt like it," Spiers said. "My life was, without a doubt, in danger. I wouldn't have shot anybody if I didn't think my life was in danger."

Spiers has not been charged.