The stories of what the CHL holder did are inconsistent within the media. This could be due to different writers and varying stages of shock/stress/etc. at the time of any interviews as well as differing focus areas of the stories. While I'd love to just take the version most favorable to the "cause", I don't think we're able to make a determination that the CHL holder did anything that stopped any violence on the part of the shooter.
We can, however, say that he DEFINITELY had the means to defend himself and those he cared about........AND..........that he MAY have saved lives......
..........because he violated the private policy of the mall and LAWFULLLY carried his weapon.
The second amendment.....don't leave home without exercising it!!!!!