NATCHEZ — A local man ended up in the hospital because he was trying to save another man from being shot.

The victim was reportedly driving down Spring Street Thursday at 6 p.m., when he saw a man running down the street.

When the victim asked why the man was fleeing, he said two men with guns were trying to shoot him, Natchez Police Chief Mike Mullins said.

After the victim saw the two suspects standing at a distance — one of whom exposed the gun in his waistband — he picked up the man who had been running away.

The victim drove his car to the corner of Minor and Oak streets, where he was met by the suspects, Mullins said.

The victim stepped out of his car and spoke with the suspects.

“He turned to get back in his car, a shot was fired, and it grazed his thigh and hit the rear end of the car,” Mullins said.

The victim drove himself to Natchez Regional Medical Center where he was treated and released.

“We’ve identified the suspects and affidavits are being signed for aggravated assault,” Mullins said.