Jacksonville, Florida

From Jacksonville’s FOX30Online.com of April 23, 2007

Man Attacked, Shoots Suspect in Self Defense

A man fought back against his attackers Sunday night in Arlington by pulling a gun and firing. One of the suspected attackers was shot in the chest. The 17-year-old suspect is expected to survive.

Police say the victim fired in self defense and is not facing any charges at this time.

Police say the man was justified in shooting because he told police he was in fear for his life. Had he fired while the suspects were running away, he could be facing jail time.

“If the suspect is running away, there is not a threat of them hurting you,” Melissa Bujeda, the public information officer for the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, said.

The man was riding his bicycle on Merrill Road Sunday night, when two people attacked him, police said. In retaliation, the man pulled a gun, fired it and hit one of his attackers in the chest. He was taken to the hospital where he is expected to recover from his injuries.

The two suspects were arrested and charged with battery.