BROWARD COUNTY, Fla. -- Police say a trail of blood left behind by a robbery suspect who accidentally shot himself has led to a confession and an arrest.

Investigators say 28-year old Lakeary Heck confessed Friday to robbing the Oakland Park News and Variety at 3764 NE 12th Ave. in Oakland Park on the evening of April 23. Heck reportedly admitted to shooting 23-year-old store clerk Richard Riley in the head, neck, and leg.

Police said during the robbery, Heck also shot himself in the left hand, leaving behind a trail of blood. A sample of that blood was sent to the Broward Sheriff's Office Crime Lab where the DNA was matched to a prison sample from Heck, who had already been identified as a suspect.

Detectives said Heck told them his gun went off twice when Riley tried to grab the weapon as the two men were behind the store's counter. A third bullet was fired at Riley as Heck stood in front of the counter.

Riley remains hospitalized in critical condition on a respirator. He also lost sight in one eye.

Police say Heck, who took about $50 in the robbery, has a lengthy arrest record. In late 1993, he was sentenced to prison for robbery and aggravated assault charges. He was released in October 1997. In January 2003 he was sent back to prison on drug charges and was released about 10 months later.

Heck is in BSO's main jail, where he is being held without bond. He is charged with armed robbery and attempted murder.