Adelphi, Maryland



From Washington's WTOPNews.com of January 20, 2004

Homeowner Shoots, Kills Intruder in Maryland



A would-be burglar is dead after the owner of the home he was trying to break into shot him. Police say at this point no charges have been filed against the homeowner, but police will be consulting with the Maryland state attorney.



Police in Prince George's County got a 911 call Tuesday morning from a man who lives in the 1900 block of Ruatan Street in Adelphi.



He allegedly got out a ladder and tried to get into an upstairs window.



"He advised us that someone was trying to break into his home," said Corporal Fred Merkle. "The suspect placed the ladder against the side of the victim's home and we believe he was attempting to gain entry into the home"



Police say the homeowner came outside and confronted the burglar, then shot him once in the chest. The burglar died at Washington Hospital Center.



Investigators are still trying to determine if the homeowner will be charged.