Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

From ChannelOklahoma.com of May 18, 2005

Alleged Intruder Shot By Homeowner

Suspect In Serious Condition; Police Say Case Still Under Investigation

An intruder got more than he bargained for Tuesday night when he allegedly tried to break into a home in northwest Oklahoma City.

Oklahoma City police said a woman shot Ervin Donaldson twice in the chest while he tried to break into her home at 1221 N. Woodward St. near Northwest 12th Street and Grand Avenue. Officers said Donaldson knocked on the back door of the house just after 10:30 p.m Tuesday, asked to use the phone, then tried to force his way into the home.

A man who also lives in the house apparently confronted Donaldson and started fighting him. Lt. Don Holland said that's when the man's wife pulled out the gun and opened fire.

"The information we got ... he came to the back door, knocked on the door, (then the) homeowner came to the back door, (and) an altercation occurred at the back door," Holland said.

Donaldson was in serious condition Wednesday at the University of Oklahoma Medical Center. Police said the man who confronted him was also shot once in the hand, but added that his injuries aren't considered serious.

Police were continuing their investigation Wednesday evening. Officers said it would be up to the district attorney to decide whether the shooting was justified.

According to state prison records, Donaldson spent time in prison for seven burglaries committed over two days in 1997. He also served time on drug and trespassing charges in 1996.