Sunday, March 30, 2008

California: Cigar-store clerk foils robbers by taking away gun

Clairemont, California

From the San Diego Union Tribune of March 30, 2008
Cigar-store clerk foils robbers by taking away gun

A cigar store clerk foiled an armed robbery attempt by two men and a woman Saturday, San Diego police said.

The three entered a cigar store on Balboa Avenue near Genesee Avenue in Clairemont about 1 p.m., and the woman pulled out a gun and demanded money, police said.

The clerk managed to take the gun away, and the three left empty-handed.

The woman was described as white, 30 to 35 years old, heavy-set with long blond hair. She wore a blue jacket and blue jeans.

The men were described as white, 30 to 35 years old, with medium builds and average height. They wore blue shirts and blue jeans.

Saturday, March 29, 2008

Florida: Security Guard Fires Shots At Attempted Robber

Marion, Florida

From CBS4 of March 29, 2008
Security Guard Fires Shots At Attempted Robber

Shots ring out outside a Miramar Foot Locker when a security guard strikes a would-be robber.

Police said a Marion security guard was having lunch in front of the Foot Locker at 3194 South University Drive Friday afternoon, when he saw a man covering his face with a bandana and taking out a gun.

That's when the guard fired his gun striking the suspect four times, said police.

Investigators said the injured suspect fled in a wafting white Nissan, but was later found in Miami Gardens at 889 NW 214th Street. The suspect was transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital.

Detectives are still looking for the Nissan driven and another passenger they believe was in the car.

Friday, March 28, 2008

California: Neighbor apprehends burglar after pursuit

Blue Lake, California

From the Eureka Reporter of March 27, 2008
Neighbor apprehends burglar after pursuit

Deputies from the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office arrested a man yesterday afternoon after neighbors in Blue Lake allegedly caught him during a home burglary, a news release stated.

At about 2:45 p.m. a woman reported to the Sheriff’s Office that she saw a man enter her next-door neighbor’s residence on the 400 block of Chartin Way.

The woman told the Sheriff’s Emergency Dispatchers that her son, Steven Wilson, 49, armed with a handgun, had attempted to apprehend the suspect inside the residence and was now chasing him toward Rancheria Road.

Deputies arrived a few minutes later and found Wilson detaining Ryan Bush, 21 of Eureka. Further investigation revealed that the suspect had allegedly forcibly entered the locked residence on Chartin Way and removed several items. There was also significant vandalism inside the residence, including broken doors, light fixtures, furniture, and scratched wood floors.

When Wilson confronted him, the suspect fled from the house. Wilson fired a single “warning shot” and told the suspect to freeze, but he continued to run.

The suspect ran through backyards and private driveways until Wilson was able to catch and detain him near Rancheria Road.

Bush was treated at a local hospital for a laceration he sustained either during the burglary or the pursuit. He also had a previous injury that required medical attention.

Bush was then transported to the Humboldt County jail and booked for burglary. His bail was set at $50,000 and he is expected to be arraigned Friday.

Ohio: Dad fatally shot as he tried to 'jump on' son, ex-wife told 911

Columbus, Ohio

From the Columbus Dispatch of March 28, 2008
Dad fatally shot as he tried to 'jump on' son, ex-wife told 911

A South Side man fatally shot his father Monday after the father "went to jump on" him during a fight in the family home, according to a 911 call to police.

In a weary, subdued voice, Janice Carson detailed in the tape-recorded call the moments that led up to the killing of Steven J. Carson about 3:40 p.m. inside her home at 1348 Oakwood Ave.

Steven Carson, 51, no longer lived there, Janice Carson said, but she didn't explain why he was in the house.

"My ex-husband came in and went to jump on my son, and my son has shot his father," she told the call-taker.

Steven Carson was shot once, according to police. In an inventory of items police said they took during a search of the home were a .45-caliber Ruger handgun, a shell casing and a pillowcase.

Homicide detectives have not charged the son, identified in various police and court documents as Derick W. Carson, 23. They said the younger Carson might have acted in self-defense, and the case will be presented to a grand jury.

A woman who answered the front door of the home yesterday politely declined to comment, calling the shooting a devastating family tragedy.

In 2000, Steven Carson was charged with aggravated menacing and domestic violence, according to Franklin County Municipal Court records. Arrest documents accused him of threatening to kill Janice Carson, and he ultimately was given a 180-day suspended jail sentence and placed on probation for two years.

During Monday's 911 call, the Carson home was quiet except for Janice Carson's voice. She said she thought Steven Carson was dead and that her son had dropped the gun after the shooting and was seated on the stairs.

"He's in shock," she said.

She told the call-taker that her son wasn't injured.

"He ran from his father," she said.

Later in the call, Janice Carson could be heard saying, "Here, Derick, give me the gun. Sit down."

She then told the call-taker that she was holding her son, and quiet sobbing is heard.

"It'll be all right, Derick," she said. "It'll be all right."

Moments later, police officers are heard at the door.

Michigan: No Charges For Gas Station Shooter

Grand Rapids, Michigan

From WWMT of March 27, 2008
No Charges For Gas Station Shooter

Kent Co. prosecutors have announced that there will be no charges for the man who shot and killed another man in Grand Rapids.

It all happened last month at the Shell Gas Station at the corner of Kalamazoo Ave. and Boston Street.

Gabriel Rodriguez was filling up his car when he got into an argument with a man named Glenn Tett, who is licensed to carry a concealed weapon. Surveillance video shows Rodriguez picking up a trash can lid seemingly to hit Tett, when Tett takes out a gun and shoots Rodriguez, killing him.

Tett told police that the reason he fired his gun was because he feared for his life, and after watching the surveillance video and investigating the case, Kent Co. Prosecutors agreed that Rodriguez' actions could have been interpreted as life-threatening.

"As you're watching (the surveillance video), this happens in an instant," said Kent Co. Prosecutor Bill Forsyth. "We could sit here and Monday-morning-quarterback this, and say well, 'He could have closed the door to his truck and gotten in and driven away. (Tett) could have stepped back, he could have waited to see what it was he was swinging at him, it might have changed things,' but that's not the way the law is written."

(More)

Tennessee: Homeowner Kills Intruder During Hickory Hill Home Invasion

Memphis, Tennessee

From MyEyewitnessNews of March 28, 2008
Homeowner Kills Intruder During Hickory Hill Home Invasion

A car thief and home invasion robber is dead after a shootout with a homeowner in Hickory Hill.

Memphis police are investigating the homicide in the 3700 block of Hyacinth, near Winchester and Mendenhall.

Investigators say a man who had been breaking into cars on Hyacinth forced his way into a home around 2:30 a.m. Friday, March 28, 2008.

Once inside, the crook got into a gunfight with the homeowner. The intruder was killed and the homeowner was rushed to The Med with a gun shot wound. He is in non-critical condition and preparing to give police a statement.

Police did not know what motive the car thief had for breaking into the home.

The area has been a hot spot for car and home burglaries lately and officers have been focusing on the problem as part of the Blue Crush crime initiative, according to police.

Iowa: Pizza Man Shoots Would-Be Robber

Des Moines, Iowa

From WHBF of March 28, 2008
Pizza Man Shoots Would-Be Robber

Police say a pizza delivery man shot an attempted robber in Des Moines.

Officials say they received a call late Thursday from the delivery man, saying another man tried to rob him at gunpoint. Police say the delivery man shot the alleged robber.

Another call came in to authorities reporting a man was shot on the second floor of an apartment building.

Authorities say the man who was shot was in serious condition at a nearby hospital. The delivery man surrendered to police at the scene. The investigation is continuing.

Thursday, March 27, 2008

Ohio: 85-year-old opens fire on thugs

Milford Township, Ohio

From the Journal News of March 27, 2008
85-year-old opens fire on thugs

Raleigh Hensley's trip to "town" Tuesday ended with men taking his wallet with $5,500 and roughing him up, but the 85-year-old didn't give up his money without a fight and even shot at the fleeing car.

Butler County Sheriff's detectives announced today, March 27, they have the culprits, both of Hamilton, behind bars who allegedly robbed Hensley. They are Timothy Alfred, 44, of Millville Ave., charged with robbery and Mark Collins, 45, of Sunset Drive, charged with complicity to robbery.

Hensley, who has lived on Darrtown Road more than 50 years, said he went to Hamilton Tuesday afternoon, March 26, and stopped by a west side liquor store to purchase a "jug of wine."

"There were three or four guys around there," Hensley said. "They saw me pay with the money in my billfold. I tripped on the way out and one of them helped me up and asked if he could take me home."

Hensley laughed and told them he wasn't drinking and didn't need any help.

But the men apparently wanted to help themselves to his cash — all $5,500 of it.

"I didn't notice them following me home," Hensley said. "When I got out to get the mail, the red car sort of blocked me and they shoved me, trying to get my billfold. I told them, 'you ain't going to get it.'"

Eventually, the men were able to swipe the wallet and jumped back in the car speeding away toward McGonigle, Hensley said

"I got my gun and shot a couple times at the tires," Hensley said. He added he has been told him today he may have hit his mark. Butler County Detective Jason Rosser said a car believed to have been driven by the culprits has been located and is being processed. Hensley also tried to follow the getaway car, but lost them.

"I've never had any type of problem out here," Hensley said. "Still don't. They followed me home."

He added he usually does not carry thousands in cash, but had plans for the money they stole.

Texas: Woman Shoots Robber, Husband During Home Invasion

Houston, Texas

From Click2Houston of March 27, 2008
Woman Shoots Robber, Husband During Home Invasion

A woman shot and killed an intruder and accidentally wounded her husband in a northeast Harris County home invasion, investigators told KPRC Local 2 Thursday.

According to deputies, a couple found themselves staring down the barrel of a gun in their apartment in the Northshore Meadows complex in the 300 block of Audrey Lane shortly before midnight.

A man had just broken into their apartment and was making demands.

According to investigators, he wanted cash and drugs, and made the couple remove all their clothing.

Then, gunshots rang out. However, the would-be robber wasn't the one squeezing the trigger, officials said.

"The husband got into a physical altercation with the suspect," Harris County Deputy A.J. Kelly said. "The wife was able to retrieve a handgun that they had up in the room and she fired shots, striking and killing the suspect."

The husband was also shot. Deputies said he was hit in the arm. They believe he may have been hit by friendly fire from his wife.

The couple told investigators that they did not know the man or why they were the targets of a home invasion.

"Seems like, at this point, they did what they had to do," Kelly said. "They were in fear that this individual who broke into their house was going to harm them."

Deputies said they believe the intruder may not have been alone.

"We have a female detained that was in the parking lot at the time of the incident and we're questioning her know," Kelly said. "She's definitely a person of interest. We think she was with him."

According to Kelly, the woman was downstairs in the parking lot waiting in what appeared to be the getaway car.

Investigators said that the husband suffered from an exit wound to the arm.

He was taken to the hospital and is expected to recover.

Wednesday, March 26, 2008

New York: Druggist wrestles shotgun away from would be robbery

Carmel, New York

From Midhudson Most Wanted of March 26, 2008
Druggist wrestles shotgun away from would be robbery

A gunman who tried to rob a Carmel pharmacy Tuesday afternoon was subdued by the pharmacist after a violent struggle.

The robber, armed with a sawed-off shotgun, attempted to rob the store of narcotics.

The incident unfolded at about 12:35 p.m. at the Rite Aid Pharmacy in the ShopRite Plaza on Route 52 in Carmel.

The suspect, identified as David Both, 49, of Kent, allegedly walked up to the pharmacy counter, pulled the shotgun and demanded narcotics from the pharmacy staff.

Both then walked around behind the counter as the pharmacist, Mark Gallagher, complied with his demands by placing drugs into a bag.

When the suspect pointed the shotgun toward two female employees, Gallagher, who later told police he feared the suspect was going to shoot the women, grabbed the weapon. After a struggle, the pharmacist was able to wrest control of the gun from Both and fought him off.

Someone in the store called 911 and patrols from the Putnam, Sheriff’s Office, Carmel and Ken Police and the State Police rushed to the store. Both was taken into custody.

As a deputy was unloading the shotgun, police said it accidentally discharged and fired a slug into a rear wall of the store. No one was injured. Police think the gun may have gone off because it was damaged during the struggle.

Gallagher was not injured in the altercation.

Another store employee, a 64-year-old woman, later experienced chest pains while be interviewed at the Sheriff’s Office. She was taken to the hospital for evaluation.

Both was charged with attempted robbery in the first degree.

**Note** To clear up confusion, the reported perpetrator is named "Both".

Tuesday, March 25, 2008

Alabama: Man Shoots, Kills Cousin Stealing Gas

Phenix City, Alabama

From WSBTV of March 25, 2008
Man Shoots, Kills Cousin Stealing Gas

Authorities in Russell County have not filed charges against a homeowner who said today he shot and killed a man who was siphoning gasoline from his truck in the middle of the night, only to discover the victim was a cousin.

Robert Lee Warren of Hatchechubee said the man identified by the coroner as 40-year-old Henry Moses made a threatening move toward him after being confronted, so he pulled the trigger in self-defense.

Coroner Arthur Sumbry Jr. said Moses died of a single gunshot to the chest about 2 a.m. CDT on Easter Sunday. The body was found near a blue pickup truck under an awning that Warren used as a carport. He said its unclear how much, if any, gasoline was taken.

Prosecutor Buster Landreau said it was too early to say whether an indictment could result when a grand jury considers the case.

Alabama law allows residents to use deadly force if they feel their life is in danger.

With the average price for regular, self-serve gasoline hitting $3.26 a gallon in the United States, gasoline thefts are being reported across the country.

Florida: Police: Intruder Shot, Killed In Break-In

Miami-Dade County, Florida

From Local10 of March 25, 2008
Police: Intruder Shot, Killed In Break-In

A resident might have shot and killed one of two intruders who tried to break into his southwest Miami-Dade County home early Tuesday morning, police said.

The fatal shooting occurred at about 2 a.m. outside 5851 SW 118th Ave.

Miami-Dade police said it appeared two men tried to burglarize the home when the resident fought with them outside and fatally shot one of them. The second intruder fled the scene but was later found west of 118th Avenue, police said. He was detained and is being questioned by police.

Police were also questioning the resident of the home, but it was too early to determine exactly what happened, Miami-Dade police Detective Alvaro Zabaleta said.

The resident's family said he was OK and that there had been intruders at the home before.

Monday, March 24, 2008

Arizona: Scottsdale woman shoots at persistent intruder

Scottsdale, Arizona

From the East Valley Tribune of March 24, 2008
Scottsdale woman shoots at persistent intruder

A 74-year-old woman twice shot at a man after he made repeated attempts to break into her home, extort money from her and threatened to set fire to her garage.

Hugh Turner, 52, was arrested by Scottsdale police about 2 p.m. Friday on suspicion of threatening and intimidation and other offenses at a residence in the 27800 block of North 94th Street.

Turner allegedly threatened to burn the woman’s house down after pouring gasoline in her garage about midnight on Thursday if she refused to give him money, police said.

After the woman complied with his demands, Turner fled but later returned to the home about 4 a.m. Saturday and tried to break into an upstairs door using a ladder. The woman fired two shots from a handgun, but the man was able to get away unharmed, police said.

Officer’s from the parks and preserve unit on All-Terrain Vehicles found Turner in a desert area near the home and arrested him. Turner also was arrested on suspicion of attempted arson on an occupied structure, theft by extortion, endangerment and disorderly conduct.

Turner was treated at Scottsdale Healthcare Thompson Peak hospital for an ankle injury he sustained after he jumped from the ladder at the woman’s home. He was booked into the Scottsdale City Jail. Police said the woman and man knew each other.

Sunday, March 23, 2008

Pennsylvania: Suspect Shot In Tattoo Parlor Robbery

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

From WPXI of March 23, 2008
Suspect Shot In Tattoo Parlor Robbery

A tattoo parlor on the corner of Fourth Street and Euclid Avenue in Dravosburg was robbed at 9:15 p.m. Saturday night.

The suspect, who is described as a 6-foot-5-inch 250-pound male of unknown race, escaped on foot with $200. But that's not all the robber left with.

The owner of the business told police that he believes he may have shot the suspect in the back.

Shortly afterwards, police responded to a call from a man who said he was shot in the back at an address 1/2 of a mile away from the scene of the robbery. It is unknown whether these two incidents are related.

Mckeesport police and Allegheny County homicide detectives are not releasing any information about the investigation at this time.

Saturday, March 22, 2008

Missouri: Self-defense claimed in area shooting death

Nevada, Missouri

From the Joplin Globe of March 21, 2008
Self-defense claimed in area shooting death

Vernon County deputies looking into a fatal shooting this week in the Dederick area were awaiting results Friday of an autopsy to help them determine whether any charges should be filed against the shooter.

Vernon County Sheriff Ron Peckman said the shooter, a man in his 50s, claims he was being assaulted by the man he is believed to have shot three times with a .32-caliber handgun.

The man killed was identified as Jimmy Dale Duncan, 47, whose last known address was in Neosho, the sheriff said. Peckman said Duncan apparently had been staying in recent days at the home where his body was found, near the intersection of Katy Track and 2900 Road in eastern Vernon County.

The Vernon County Sheriff’s Department was called at 8:19 p.m. Wednesday to the home when a female caller initially reported someone was possibly suffering a heart attack at the address. The sheriff said a second call from the residence reported a possible shooting.

Deputies and emergency medical workers found Duncan dead when they arrived. The sheriff said Duncan had visible gunshot wounds to his chest, abdomen and arm. He said the man believed to have shot Duncan surrendered his handgun to deputies when they arrived at the scene.

The man and a woman, who both live at the address, were taken in for questioning Wednesday night. They were later released without any charges having been filed. The Sheriff’s Department had not released their names as of Friday afternoon.

Peckman said the man claims he was being assaulted by Duncan and shot him in self-defense.

The sheriff said the shooter was on oxygen for medical reasons and was sitting in a chair inside the home when Duncan reportedly began slapping his face. He said the man told investigators he reached for his gun beside the chair and shot Duncan.

Duncan had been seeing the woman who lives at the address, the sheriff said. He said the woman and the shooter lived together as friends and may have been related. He said their exact relationship had yet to be determined by investigators.

All three had been drinking together, Peckman said.

“They admitted they had been drinking beer and whiskey all afternoon and evening,” he said. “It makes for a bad combination.”

An autopsy scheduled for Thursday in Springfield was delayed until Friday, the sheriff said. Investigators were waiting to see what the autopsy might reveal, he said, with respect to trajectories and range of the shots that struck Duncan and which shot caused his death. Toxicology tests also were being conducted on the body, he said.

Besides obtaining statements from the two occupants of the house, a male neighbor who was at the home when the shooting took place was questioned, the sheriff said.

Friday, March 21, 2008

Pennsylvania: Braddock store owner pins would-be robber

Braddock, Pennsylvania

From the Pittsburgh Post-Tribune of March 21, 2008
Braddock store owner pins would-be robber

Al Handza did a small favor Thursday afternoon for a young man in Braddock, a few minutes before the man put a gun to his head and tried to rob him.

Handza, owner of Al's Market on Braddock Avenue, refused to be bullied and grabbed the robber's hands, wrestling him to the ground.

During the struggle, the gun discharged twice and the wounded thief tried to run, only to be stopped by Handza and detained for police.

The robber, whose identity and age are not known because he gave a phony name to police, was taken to UPMC Presbyterian hospital in Oakland with gunshot wounds in the arm and back, said Braddock police Sgt. Frank Barreiro. The extent of the injuries is not known.

Handza, 61, who had cataract surgery on Tuesday, said he didn't have time to think about how scared he was.

"What are you going to do?" Handza said with a shrug 90 minutes after the incident.

"He came behind the counter with a gun, put it to my head and we started tussling."

Handza, who has operated the small market near the Rankin Bridge for 26 years, said the young man often comes into the store and was there twice yesterday before the holdup.

"The second time, he bought two bags of chips but was short 18 cents," Handza said. "I said, 'You're always in here. I'll get it tomorrow.'"

A minute later -- shortly before 5 p.m. -- the man returned, trying to hide his face with a hooded sweatshirt and bandana.

"He said, 'This is a stickup!' I thought he was joking because he'd just left."

The .22-caliber handgun the robber was pointing at Handza's head was no laughing matter, and the store owner acted to defend himself.

"I threw him and we went down together," said Handza, who was alone at the time.

As the two wrestled, the gun discharged twice and the robber said, "I'm shot!"

The thief got up without the gun, ran out the door and around the corner between two buildings, where he was stopped by a 12-foot fence.

Handza grabbed the gun off the floor, called 911 and ran outside after the robber.

"He couldn't get over the fence. I held his own gun on him and told him to hit the ground, face first. He laid there, and the cops were here in less than a minute."

Barreiro said the investigation has been turned over to Allegheny County Police detectives. He said he believes they will charge the man with robbery and weapons violations.

(More)

Thursday, March 20, 2008

Arizona: Peoria Homeowner Shoots Intruder

Peoria, Arizona

From KTAR of March 20, 2008
Peoria Homeowner Shoots Intruder

A Peoria homeowner shot an intruder Thursday morning.

Peoria Police Public Information Officer Mike Tellef said the 62-year-old man heard someone breaking into his house near 85th and Olive avenues. Armed with a handgun, he went to investigate.

"He told us that he told the subject to stop," Tellef said. "The subject kept approaching on him, he felt in fear of his life, that's why he fired the single shot that he fired."

The 18-year-old suspect, Jason Rodriguez, a Glendale resident, was shot in the shoulder, and transported to a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries where he was treated and released to police.

Rodriquez was booked into 4th Avenue Jail and charged with burglary and aggravated assault.

Texas: Man shot in home by intruder

Frisco, Texas

From the Courier Gazette of March 20, 2008
Man shot in home by intruder

A Frisco man received minor injuries after being shot in the arm by an intruder after arriving home from work Thursday afternoon.

Steven Geddie, 24, told police that he grabbed a 12 gauge shotgun when he heard someone breaking into the rear door of his home after arriving home from work in the 8400 block of Hickory Street shortly after 6 p.m.

“Initial reports show that he and another subject exchanged gunshots,” Frisco police Sgt. Gerald Meadors said.

Police said that the intruder used a small caliber pistol to fire two rounds at Geddie, who then fired one round at the intruder. Geddie suffered a minor injury to the left arm but refused to be transported to the hospital.

Police said Geddie described the suspect as a Hispanic or Oriental male wearing a blue Dallas Cowboys cap, grey and white jacket, jeans, and a red bandana over his face.

The motive for the shooting is unknown, and the incident is still under investigation.

North Carolina: Police: Home invasion victim shoots, kills suspects

Hickory, North Carolina

From WCNC of March 20, 2008
Police: Home invasion victim shoots, kills suspects

Police say two suspects are dead after an attempted home invasion.

Catawba County sheriff’s deputies say two men dressed in black and carrying pistols forced their way into a home on 33rd Avenue in Hickory around 11:00 last night. According to a sheriff’s official, the homeowner was armed with his own gun, and shot the suspects. Both suspects were pronounced dead at the scene.

Major Coy Reid with the sheriff’s office said both men were wearing masks and latex gloves.

At this time, no arrests have been made.

Wednesday, March 19, 2008

New York: Resident Shoots at Suspects

Anton, New York

From the Anton News of March 7, 2008
Resident Shoots at Suspects

A resident of Elmont shot at two suspects who broke into his residence in an attempted burglary.

According to police, at approximately 1:25 a.m. on Feb. 28, two male suspects kicked open the side door of a Post Avenue home and ordered the 36-year-old male resident not to move.

Police said the suspects then removed cash that was on a piece of furniture in the living room. Police said the resident was a licensed pistol permit holder and produced a handgun. The resident then chased after the suspects, firing one shot, police said. It is not known whether one of the suspects was struck.

One of the suspects is described as a black male, wearing a black, puffy jacket and a dark skullcap.

Indiana: Two men wounded at Austin business

Scott County, Indiana

From the Louisville Courier-Journal of March 18, 2008
Two men wounded at Austin business

Two Scott County men are recovering from gunshot wounds at University Hospital in Louisville after they were wounded last night on the property of a modular home dealership in Austin.

Malcolm Abner, 28, and Michael West, 33, are listed in fair condition today.

Scott County Sheriff John Lizenby said 32-year-old Chester Stacey told officers that he shot the men when they came at him as he investigated what he thought were people stealing things at Countryside Mobile Homes at 2771 E Ind. 256 in Austin.
Stacey is the son of Countryside owner Grover Stacey.

Lizenby said a Scott County officer who had been called to the scene to investigate possible trespassers was talking to the elder Stacey when they heard voices and then heard gunshots in a field on the property.

Officer Joe Johnson found the younger Stacey holding a 9-mm automatic handgun with Abner down in front of him.

West later came out of the field and told an Indiana state trooper that he’d been shot.

Lizenby said this morning that no one has been charged but the investigation is continuing. He said officers are searching for two other men that Chester Stacey said were also in the field.

Virginia: Landscaper shoots rabid fox after attacks

Gloucester County, Virginia

From the Daily Press of March 19, 2008
Landscaper shoots rabid fox after attacks

A rabid fox was shot Friday in the Pine Mill Subdivision off of Pinetta Road, making it the second confirmed animal with rabies in the county this year.

The fox was seen acting strangely in the neighborhood last Thursday, prompting residents to call Gloucester Animal Control, said M.B. Sheppard, the county's Environmental Health Supervisor. But deputies were unable to find the fox and advised residents that if the fox was spotted again and acting similarly to shoot it.

On Friday, the fox first attacked two adult dogs that were penned up and then two puppies playing in a ditch and exposed the two puppies to rabies, Sheppard said. A landscaper working in the subdivision saw the fox and borrowed a homeowner's shotgun before killing the animal. Tests later confirmed the fox was rabid.

A 9-year-old girl who came in contact with the puppies is undergoing post-exposure rabies treatment, Sheppard said.

Arizona: Stunt man turned salon owner shoots robber

Phoenix, Arizona

From the AZCentral of March 18, 2008
Stunt man turned salon owner shoots robber

A would-be robber, “picked the wrong business and the wrong cowboy to mess with,” when he entered a Phoenix storefront and pulled out a gun.

That’s because Rodd Wolff leads a double life. He is a movie stuntman. In training for roles in films like “Rambo III”, “Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure” and “Miracle at Sage Creek”, Wolff had to be able to shoot a gun while riding a horse. He got a chance to put those cowboy skills to use in the unlikely setting of the business he owns, a hair salon.

Wolff, his wife and three clients were inside Hair Productions at 25 Street and Indian School Road about 3:30 Tuesday afternoon when the suspect walked in wearing a wig and dark sunglasses. Because of previous crimes at nearby businesses, Wolff had established a code word his employees would use in the event of a robbery.

He was in a back room when he heard his wife utter the code word three times. As the robber moved further into the salon, Wolff removed a gun that had been wrapped in a towel and ordered the man to drop his gun. When he did not comply, Wolff fired three shots, striking the suspect.

The robber dropped his wig and sunglasses and managed to get a green SUV outside the store. Wolff followed and held the man at gunpoint until police arrived.

The suspect was taken to a hospital in critical condition.

Phoenix Police Lt. Robert Sparks was impressed at Wolff’s use of the code word. “It’s good for business owners to be prepared and have a plan,” Sparks said.

Wolff says he first opened the salon in 1972. His acting career began in 1966’s “Duel At Diablo”. The Internet Movie Database credits him as a stuntman in18 films or TV shows. He is also listed as an actor in one film.

Despite his actions taking down an armed robber in a salon with five innocent people, Wolff says, “I’m no hero.”

Georgia: Elderly Tucker man kills intruder

Tucker, Georgia

From the Atlanta Journal-Constitution of March 19, 2008
Elderly Tucker man kills intruder

If a DeKalb County home invasion suspect thought an elderly Tucker couple would make an easy target Tuesday night, he thought wrong.

Now the suspect is dead, and DeKalb police say the 81-year-old homeowner will not face charges for shooting and killing the man.

DeKalb police spokesman J.T. Ware said that about 11 p.m., the unidentified suspect, who appeared to be in his 20s, broke into the home on Zemory Drive, in a neighborhood off Lawrenceville Highway.

"The suspect, as he was entering the location, made enough noise to arouse the suspicions of the homeowner, and he was able to locate his weapon and load it," Ware said.

The homeowner confronted the suspect, and after a brief struggle, shot and killed the man, Ware said.

He said the homeowner, whose name has not been released, was hospitalized for treatment of wounds suffered during the struggle, but is expected to be okay. The man's 78-year-old wife was not injured.

Ware said police do not plan to charge the homeowner.

"He defended his home, defended his wife," Ware said. "He did what everybody would hope to do in a situation like that."

Tuesday, March 18, 2008

Missouri: Man thwarts three would-be burglars

Kansas City, Missouri

From the Kansas City Star of March 11, 2008
Man thwarts three would-be burglars

The pounding of feet against his front door awoke a 56-year-old Kansas City man early Tuesday.

“Was that you?” Les Daniel called to his 10-year-old grandson in another bedroom.

“No,” the boy replied.

Daniel climbed from bed, grabbed two handguns and prepared for a showdown.

He recounted to a Kansas City Star reporter the story of the break-in at 2:20 a.m. Tuesday in the 4400 block of East 68th Terrace.

When he peered into his darkened dining room, fish tank lights illuminated a hooded stranger slinking across the room to inspect a home computer.

“Who is it?” Daniel asked.

“KCP,” the stranger replied, an apparent reference to Kansas City police.

Daniel saw a second stranger and heard a third. He wondered whether to confront them or just kill them.

“I was behind two of them, and they didn’t even know it. I could have killed them really quick,” he recalled. “But they looked young. And if I start shooting, they’re gonna shoot back.”

Not wanting to endanger his wife and grandson, Daniel called out: “Whatever you think I got, you’re wrong! There ain’t anything in here! You’re about ready to die over $8!”

He chambered a round in his .357-caliber Glock with a loud click. The intruders fled.

Daniel couldn’t figure why his house was targeted.

“I guess it looks like I got something, but I don’t,” he said.

Unable to secure his splintered front door, he stayed up the rest of the night in case the intruders returned. Later, he bought a new door with a strike plate, and a new wrought-iron screen door.

Michigan: Homeowner shoots man in Flint's first homicide

Flint, Michigan

From the Flint Journal of March 16, 2008
Homeowner shoots man in Flint's first homicide

The city's first homicide of the year occurred Saturday morning when police said a 72-year-old man shot his 37-year-old housemate in the stomach.

Police were called to the scene about 7 a.m. and found Jonathon Joseph Stevens dead on the sidewalk next door to the home where he'd been living. Police have not released the name of the accused shooter.

Flint police Sgt. Roderick LeGardye said Stevens and the older man got into an argument early Saturday morning inside the home at 2518 Bagley St. During the fight, Stevens allegedly hit the elderly man with a large wooden stick. The 72-year-old then pulled out a gun and shot the victim at least once in the stomach, LeGardye said.

Stevens tried to run away but collapsed on the sidewalk. The suspect was taken to Hurley Medical Center with head injuries. He is not expected to be taken into police custody pending further investigation, LeGardye said.

"Right now, we're unsure what they were fighting about," LeGardye said.

LeGardye said Stevens was living in the older man's home but did not know their relationship. Stevens' wife had recently moved in and was at the home when the shooting occurred.

This has been the first time in years Flint has gone more than two months into a new year without a homicide.

(More)

**Update April 15, 2008**
Housemate slaying was self-defense: no charges

Delaware: Man shot in home invasion south of Hartly

Kent County, Delaware

From the News Journal of March 18, 2008
Man shot in home invasion south of Hartly

A 29-year-old man was shot in the leg during a home invasion early Monday south of Hartly, state police said.

The victim was not seriously injured and refused to be taken to the hospital, state police spokesman Cpl. John W. Barnett Jr. said.

According to investigators, two or three men entered the home in the 3000 block of Hourglass Road by an unsecured ground-floor door about 2 a.m.

When the intruders were confronted by the homeowner, one of the intruders fired a gun at him.

The homeowner returned fire at the suspects using a handgun, Barnett said.

After several shots were fired, the intruders fled without taking anything.

The homeowner was struck once in the left leg, Barnett said. The gunshot wound was minor and he was treated at the scene.

A 22-year-old woman and two children, ages 2 and 11, were also home during the incident. They were not injured.

(More)

Monday, March 17, 2008

Harrison County, Kentucky

From WLEX of March 10, 2008
Burglar Shot By Homeowner, Arrested

An alleged burglar who was shot by a homeowner in Harrison County Sunday night is now behind bars.

The incident happened at about 9:30 p.m. at a home on Old Lair Road. Police say Thomas Perysian, 25, of Cynthiana was discovered by homeowner Kevin Landrum, who shot Perysian in his right hand and forearm with a shotgun. Police say Landrum called them from a cell phone while holding the gun on Perysian.

Police say Perysian was treated and released from UK Hospital. He is now being held in the Grant County Detention Center on first-degree burglary charges.

Sunday, March 16, 2008

Cottonwood, Arizona: Never Bring An Ax to a Gunfight

Cottonwood, Arizona

From February 22, 2008 Cottonwood Police Department press release:
UPDATE: On 02-22-08 at about 11:08 am a fatal shooting occurred in the parking lot of the Safeway store, 1635 E. Cottonwood Street. The deceased person is identified as James Keith Orsini, 47, of Cottonwood. Mr. Orsini died at the scene. Next of kin have been notified.

ORIGINAL REPORT: The Cottonwood Police Department is investigating a homicide that occurred on February 22, 2008 at about 11:08 AM in the Safeway Store parking lot.

Cottonwood, Arizona, February 22, 2008 - Today at about 1108 AM Officers of the Cottonwood Police Department responded to the parking lot of the Safeway Store, 1635 E Cottonwood Street, on the report of shots fired. They found one subject down with apparent gunshot wounds and a second subject nearby. The gunshot victim was deceased at the scene. At the time of this report he has not been positively identified. The other party involved is identified as James Sherman King, 59 years old, of Cottonwood.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the incident started on the roadway and both subjects pulled into the store parking lot. Witnesses state that the deceased subject approached Mr. King with a raised axe. They heard two shots and the man with the axe fell to the ground.

South Salt Lake Home Intruder Shot

South Salt Lake, Utah

From March 15, 2008 KUTV channel 2:
A man shot an intruder in the stomach after the suspect attacked his girlfriend in her South Salt Lake home.

The woman was sleeping in her home in Mountain Shadows Apartments on 3900 south and 700 west, when around 5:45 a.m., she was awakened by a loud bang.

A man, who police have identified as 18-year-old, Daniel Glen Larson, allegedly kicked in the apartment door and shattered the door frame.

The woman immediately alerted her boyfriend, who was also in the apartment and began calling 911.

Just as she was dialing the numbers into her phone, Larson allegedly grabbed the woman and began attacking her.

Seconds later, the woman’s boyfriend retrieved his loaded handgun and shot Larson in the abdomen.

Wounded, Larson ran to the living room where both victims attempted to restrain him until police arrived.

Larson broke free from the man and woman and jumped through a plate of glass window, dramatically exiting the apartment.

Larson then attempted to run across 3900 south, where he was almost hit by motorists.

After a minor struggle with the arriving South Salt Lake officers, Larson was taken into custody.

Police say that this was definitely not what the intruder expected.

“We had a bandit that in this case, bit off a little more than he could chew,” said Gary Keller from the South Salt Lake Police Department.

The man who shot Larson has a concealed weapon’s permit and has received training in operating of handguns.

Friday, March 14, 2008

North Richland Hills, Texas Homeowner Shoots Prowler

North Richland Hills, Texas

From the March 14, 2008 Dallas Morning News:
A homeowner shot an intruder early Friday morning, and North Richland Hills police were investigating whether criminal charges would be filed.

The incident occurred about 12:30 a.m. in the 7900 block of Laura Street, said North Richland Hills police Sgt. Greg Trickey.

The 30-year-old homeowner heard some noises outside and confronted a person in his backyard. The homeowner told the person to stay put, but the man advanced, police said. Samuel Thomas Ford, 27, was shot in the shoulder and taken to John Peter Smith Hospital with a non-life threatening injury, police said.

Police declined to release the name of the homeowner.

Hildalgo County, Texas Victim's Wife Shoots At Intruders

Hildalgo County, Texas

From March 12, 2008 KRGV channel 5:

HIDALGO COUNTY - Two gunmen involved in a home invasion were chased away by the victim's wife.

"I was in shock. I'm still in shock. I can't believe this happened," she tells us. We're hiding the woman's identity and will call her "Michelle."

She tells us her husband is extremely careful on who he lets on his property. But last night's incident started when the homeowner went outside to close the gate.

According to "Michelle," two masked men pulled into the driveway with guns in hand, demanding drugs and money.

She tells us, "He said, 'I don't have anything. I don't know what you're talking about. I just have children and my wife inside. Y'all need to leave.'"

The men reportedly tried to force "Michelle's" husband to open the door to his home. But the former security guard fought back.

"Michelle" says she was watching it all from inside her home.

She tells us, "I reached for the gun. It was up here. Then I got some shells from in here."

She says, "I keep telling him, 'Duck and I'll shoot! Duck and I'll shoot.' And he said, 'No, don't! Don't!' And I was debating whether to shoot or not."

"Then i just shot that way. The truck was right there."

The shots spooked the intruders and forced them to flee. A tree outside is still marked by the pellets.

"You hear about thing like this happening, but you never think it will happen to you," "Michelle" tells us.

The shotgun was taken by deputies for the investigation. But the couple says they'll be buying another gun.

"We should feel at home in our own home. We shouldn't feel frightened or afraid of anybody. This is our home," says "Michelle."

Tuesday, March 11, 2008

Rabid Mountain Lion Attacks Boy, Gets Shot

Tonto National Forest, Arizona

From the March 11, 2008 San Francisco Chronicle:

A rabid mountain lion was shot to death after attacking a 10-year-old boy as he and his family celebrated his birthday in a national forest near Phoenix, officials said.

Paul John Schalow of El Mirage, Ariz., suffered minor scratches on his back but wasn't seriously injured during Saturday's attack in a sparsely populated area in the Tonto National Forest, said Randy Babb, a biologist with the Arizona Department of Game and Fish.

Paul said he and his cousin were playing in the sand when the mountain lion came up.

"It just placed its paw on me, and it bites my head," Paul told KSAZ-TV Monday. "It scratches my back.

"I just stayed calm. I like animals but I know this one would probably try to kill me."

Paul will have to undergo a series of shots after being exposed to rabies, Babb said. Game officials are also recommending the shots for other people who touched the lion.

Babb said the attack occurred while the boy and his family were taking a break from riding all-terrain vehicles. He said while the animal tried to bite Paul's head, it didn't actually do it, only slightly clawing the boy's back.

A member of the group shot the lion twice, killing it, Babb said. He didn't know what kind of weapon was used.

UPDATE: Another version of the story appears in the March 10, 2008 Arizona Republic:
An El Mirage boy celebrating his 10th birthday with his family at an Arizona national forest was attacked by a rabid mountain lion Saturday afternoon.

The boy's uncle shot the animal in time for the boy to escape with only minor scratches on his back.

The victim, Paul John Schalow, and family members who were exposed to the infected lion will start a series of post-exposure rabies shots as a health precaution, said Randy Babb, a biologist with the Arizona Game & Fish Department.

...

Paul and his family told officials they were taking a lunch break after riding their ATVs near Bloody Basin Road and Sheep Bridge. Newton Smith said two of his grandkids, Paul, 10, and Brittany, 9, were playing at a campsite when a mountain lion walked in between them. The four remaining family members stood about 10 feet from the lion.

Smith said the lion scratched Paul on his shoulder, drawing blood. The rabid animal then opened its mouth and put its teeth on Paul's head. The lion finally stepped away from the boy and looked at him while opening his mouth.

Paul's uncle reportedly shot the lion, which was an older female, loaded it in the family's truck and took it to the family's home in El Mirage.

Sunday, March 9, 2008

Charlotte Resident Shoots Burglar

Charlotte, North Carolina

From the March 8, 2008 Charlotte Observer:

A Charlotte man who police say was trying to break into a Shamrock Drive apartment was shot and critically injured by a person who lived there.

Rontrey Eric Digsby was at Carolinas Medical Center Saturday in critical/stable condition Saturday, according to police. He is charged with first-degree burglary for trying to break into the apartment on Shamrock Drive, near the Charlotte Museum of History.

Police have released the name of the man who pulled the trigger, but the Observer didn't publish his name because he has not been charged with a crime.

According to jail records, Digsby's last known address was on Treetop Court in east Charlotte. He has an extensive criminal record dating back to 2003, when he was 17, according to a search of court records.

Saturday, March 8, 2008

Olde Town, Georgia

From NBC Augusta of March 7, 2008
Homeowner Refused To Be Robbed

One Augusta homeowner refused to be robbed. And now he's talking about his encounter with a burglar. At least eight homes, in the Olde Town neighborhood have recently been broken into.

"He was in the house. Made it down the hallway into another room," said Tim Asmann, victim.

A surprise Asmann was not expecting at his Olde Town home Thursday afternoon. Asmann says someone knocked on his door several times, but when he didn't answer, the intruder broke into his house through a window in the back.

"I knew what he was there for. Trying to do something looking for something trying to steal something," said Asmann.

So, Asmann says he was ready and waiting.

"It was quick. Shoot or not shoot. I chose not to shoot. He didn't know that was coming at all. He thought the house was completely empty and he would walk through and get what he wanted," said Asmann.

But when the would-be burglar saw Asmann's gun he took off...empty handed. And he didn't get far.

"He pretty much cased out the residents. Unfortunately, he didn't do a good job because the owner was home which helped us make an arrest and end his career in Olde town quickly," said Lt. Tony Walden, Richmond County Sheriff's Office.

Richmond County deputies arrested a 16-year-old boy. They say he is responsible for at least four break-ins in Olde Town since Valentine's Day.

Police reports show the teen stole Jewelry, laptops, cell phones, and guns. Investigators say he even used a credit card stolen from one of the homes to buy several hundred dollars worth of clothing and shoes online.

Because of this crime spree, there are now more deputies patrolling the neighborhood, including the crime suppression team.

...

Investigators also charged two others in connection with this crime spree. ... Two people are charged with felony and misdemeanor theft for receiving stolen property.

Rochester Resident Held Purse-Snatching Suspect at Gunpoint

Rochester, Massachusetts

From the February 27, 2008 New Bedford [Mass.] Standard Times:

ROCHESTER — Brad Correia had just returned to his home on Mattapoisett Road from a trip to the White Mountains with his wife and two children about 10:30 p.m. Sunday when they heard a knock at the front door.

Mr. Correia, 45, was tucking his 7-year-old son and 8-year-old daughter into bed. His wife went downstairs to see who was at the door and found a young man standing outside asking for help. Before opening the door, she summoned her husband.

"Before I went downstairs, I tucked my .45 into the back of my pants," Mr. Correia said.

Mr. Correia opened the door and Steven Grover, 18, of New Bedford, reported that his car had broken down on the interstate.

Since the family had just driven home from out of state, they had no way of knowing that a manhunt for three suspects in a purse-snatching was in progress.

"I could see that he was in pretty rough shape," Mr. Correia said of the unexpected visitor. "His clothes were soaked, he was bleeding and he'd lost one sneaker in the mud when he broke through the ice. I thought that if he were my son, I'd want someone to help him, so I let him in."

Mr. Correia permitted the fugitive to use the house phone while providing him with hot tea, dry clothes and hot water to soak his chilled feet.

"He made some calls, but he couldn't get anyone to come and get him," Mr. Correia said. "He wanted to call a cab, but he had no money, so I said I would pay."

By then, however, Mr. Correia had grown suspicious of his visitor because his story kept changing as it went along, he said.

"It just didn't add up, so I called 911 and asked them if they were looking for anyone."

Based on the description provided by the police, Mr. Correia realized that his guest was a wanted man.

"When it dawned on him that I was talking to the police, he jumped out of his chair. That's when I pulled my gun. I told him to sit back down, that the police were on their way, and he did."

"I've had my permit since I was 18, and that's the first time I've ever pointed a gun at another human being. I hope I never have to do it again. I tried to be a nice guy, but he had nothing to lose at that point. He knew he was going to jail."

Friday, March 7, 2008

Pennsylvania: Homeowner shoots at 2 intruders, police say

New Cumberland, Pennsylvania

From the The Patriot News of March 6, 2008
Homeowner shoots at 2 intruders, police say

New Cumberland police are investigating a break-in at a home in the 200 block of Geary Avenue during which the homeowner struggled with a pair of intruders and fired two shots at them as they fled.

Police said neither intruder was hit. The homeowner, who was not identified, suffered a minor cut to his stomach during the scuffle and was examined at the scene by ambulance personnel.

Police said the homeowner was asleep around 12:24 a.m. Wednesday when he was awakened by a commotion downstairs..

A scuffle broke out in the kitchen, and the homeowner fired two shots from a handgun as the intruders were running out a back door, police said.

Both burglars were described as being about 6 feet tall and weighing about 200 pounds. Police said one was white and one was black.

Nothing was reported missing. Police said a woman's handbag was found dumped on the floor and kitchen counters and drawers had been opened. The intruders forced open a back door, police said.

Police are investigating whether the break-in is related to one four days earlier at the same residence. In that case, the homeowner got up to get a drink around 12:30 a.m. and encountered a man in the home.

Tennessee: Man Shoots, Wounds Home Intruder

Nashville, Tennessee

From WSMV of March 7, 2008
Man Shoots, Wounds Home Intruder

A husband took matters into his own hands when his wife and newborn child were held up during a home invasion.

The woman said she was able to grab her phone and call her husband after three men kicked in her door late Thursday. The home is located in Glencliff Court in south Nashville.

The husband said he rushed home after getting the call from his wife, but was stopped by police and accused of speeding on the way. After explaining to the officer what was happening at his home, the man continued home with the officer following.

The man said he parked in the back yard and saw the intruders come running out the back of his house with guns drawn, so he grabbed his gun, and the two sides exchanged shots.

“They fired shots at the citizen, and the citizen returned fire at the suspects. One of the suspects is struck and flees on foot,” said Metro police Capt. Randy Hickerson.

One intruder who was shot by the man was found later on a nearby street. The other two were able to evade capture, police said.

The woman, baby and man were not hurt. Police said the intruders did not take anything from the house.

Thursday, March 6, 2008

Arkansas: Shooting ruled self defense

Searcy, Arkansas

From the Daily Citizen of March 5, 2008
Shooting ruled self defense

The killing of a Beebe man in Searcy has been ruled self defense by local prosecutors.

Jose Martinez, 24, kicked in the locked back door and illegally entered the home of Kevin M. Reed at 1300 West Arch St. in Searcy, according to a press release. The incident happened at 2:26 p.m. Jan. 8.

According to Reed, Martinez threatened him with bodily harm, prosecutors say, and Reed fired eight shots at Martinez, killing him.

“The Searcy Police Department investigation confirms that the door to the home was dead bolted and forcibly kicked in,” the press release stated, and “paint from the door was found on the bottom of Mr. Martinez' shoe.”

The shooting was within the provisions of Arkansas law, and no criminal charges will be filed, prosecutors said.

As officers entered the residence, they discovered Martinez dead of an apparent gunshot wound. The body was sent to the state crime lab for autopsy.

State law (5-2-607) says “a person is justified in using deadly physical force upon another person if the person reasonably believes that the other person is (1) committing or about to commit a felony involving force or violence, (2) using or about to use unlawful deadly physical force” or “(3) imminently endangering the person's life or imminently about to victimize the person” in reference to domestic abuse.

State law (5-2-620) says, “the right of an individual to defend himself or herself and the life of a person or property in the individual's home against harm, injury or loss by a person unlawfully entering or attempting to enter or intrude into the home is reaffirmed as a fundamental right.” That law also states that, “there is a legal presumption that any force or means used to accomplish a purpose” was “exercised in a lawful and necessary manner, unless the presumption is overcome by clear and convincing evidence to the contrary.”

Tennessee: Clerk Defends Self Against Would-Be Burglars

Smyrna, Tennessee

From News Channel 5 of March 5, 2008
Clerk Defends Self Against Would-Be Burglars

A convenience store employee shot into the parking lot to prevent two men from breaking into the business.

It happened around 4 a.m. Wednesday at the Almaville Market. It is off Interstate 24 in an unincorporated area of Rutherford County known as the Almaville community.

The incident was recorded by the store's surveillance system.

After the men smashed a large rock through a window, a cook picked up a gun and started shooting.

The men thought no one was inside the business.

"I was scared, but I think anger took over," said Donna Blanks.

Blanks is a cook and arrives early to prepare meals for customers.

She said she started to shout and shoot.

"I scared them like they scared me. No quite as much. They got gone," she said.

No one was hurt.

Sheriff's deputies told the woman she acted within her rights to shoot at the suspects as long as she was inside the store.

If anyone has any information about this crime, they should call Rutherford County Crime Stoppers at 893-STOP (7867).

Wednesday, March 5, 2008

Indiana: Truck Stop Security Guard Shoots Thief After Car Cash

Chesterton, Indiana

From the March 5, 2008 Indianapolis Star:
CHESTERTON, Ind. -- A man suspected of shoplifting hair-growth formula from a drug store was shot and wounded by a truck stop security guard following a high-speed chase in northwest Indiana.

Police say 36-year-old Michael A. Holmes of Markham, Ill., faces several charges when he is released from the hospital.

Police say Holmes had a woman and three children in his car Monday night as he led police on a chase at speeds of up to 100 mph from Chesterton to Gary.

Holmes fled on foot after crashing the car. A security guard at the Dunes Truck Stop says he shot Holmes in the abdomen when Holmes reached for his gun.

Oklahoma: Teen shot during alleged robbery attempt

Tulsa, Oklahoma

From the Tulsa World of March 5, 2008
Teen shot during alleged robbery attempt

A 15-year-old boy was in serious condition Tuesday night after being shot while allegedly trying to rob a restaurant, and a man was shot in the face earlier Tuesday in what a detective said could have been a parking-lot robbery attempt.

After the teenager was shot about 8:20 p.m. at Ralph's Fish & Burger, 1801 N. Lewis Ave., a second would-be robber fled, police said.

The restaurant's owner told police that he had shot someone who was trying to rob him, Sgt. Virgil Litterell said.

The youth reportedly had a gunshot wound to the lower back. EMSA spokeswoman Tina Wells said he was taken to St. John Medical Center.

The restaurant had just closed and an employee had stepped out the front door when two armed juveniles confronted him, Litterell said. While one pushed the employee to the ground, the other entered the restaurant, he said.

When the owner saw the armed youth enter, he drew a gun and fired twice, hitting the teen once, "before he could be fired upon," Litterell said.

The other youth ran west across Lewis, dropping his gun in the street, Litterell said.

Police used a helicopter and dogs in their search for the teen who fled. He was described as black, about 5 feet 7 inches tall, with a slender build and dark clothes.

Tuesday, March 4, 2008

Georgia: Atlanta Man Stops Beating With Gun

Atlanta, Georgia

From the March 3, 2008 Atlanta Journal-Constitution:
By 7:30 Monday evening it was business as usual at the Family Store in northwestern Atlanta. The store smelled freshly clean. The owners had removed the blood from the floor.

Two hours earlier, according to witnesses, two men had come into the convenience store at 2535 Center St. and started beating a customer. The customer then produced a gun, said Manuel Fernandez, who was working the counter. Seconds later, a 26-year-old man lay dead on the floor.

"It was two on one," the 20-year-old Fernandez said. "One was holding him, and the other was beating him in the face. That's when he got his arm free and pulled out the gun and shot."

"I think it was over money."

Outside, 14-year-old Vincent Cameron, who had been playing basketball at the store hoop, was apparently struck by a ricochet bullet. Relieved relatives said Vincent, who was being treated at a hospital, was going to be OK.

"He got shot and somehow he pulled the bullet out himself," said his cousin Shekena Talley, who lives in Paulding County. "They are going to stitch him up. He should be home soon."

"He said when he pulled the bullet out, it was hot."

Fernandez said when the shooting started he ducked behind the counter and heard several shots. When he stood back up, he saw one of the men who had been doing the beating on the floor, dead. Both the shooter and the guy who was holding him fled, Fernandez said.

...

The violence — in a city with more than 120 killings last year — didn't even merit a press release from the Atlanta Police Department.

Monday, March 3, 2008

Pennsylvania: Police: Taxi driver shoots passenger during attempted robbery

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

From the Philadelphia Inquirer of March 2, 2008
Police: Taxi driver shoots passenger during attempted robbery

Police say a Pittsburgh cab driver fatally shot a passenger who allegedly tried to rob him.

Authorities say the shooting occurred Saturday night in the city's Hill District after the passenger had been picked up downtown.

During the robbery attempt, the Yellow Cab driver pulled out a gun and a struggle ensued over the weapon.

Police say the passenger was shot and killed during the struggle and the cab driver suffered an injury to his arm. The driver was taken to a hospital for medical treatment.

Police did not release the name of the driver or the passenger.

The driver was licensed to carry a gun.

Alabama: Homeowner Kills Suspect In Home Invasion

Birmingham, Alabama

From WSBTV of March 3, 2008
Homeowner Kills Suspect In Home Invasion

Authorities say a homeowner who apparently was targeted in a home invasion Sunday night exchanged gunfire with a suspect who was killed.

Randy Christian, a Jefferson County sheriff's spokesman, said the shooting death of 23-year-old Eric Moore of Birmingham appeared to be justified. Moore died a short time later at a Birmingham hospital.

Christian said the investigation determined Moore was the masked gunman who kicked in the door of a residence in Forestdale and fired shots at the occupant. The homeowner was not hit.

Christian said the homeowner broke up a fight Saturday night at the Platinum Club in Birmingham that Moore had been involved in. He said Moore had inquired about the homeowner's address before the home was invaded.

Tennessee: Police identify teenager slain in home-invasion shootout

Knoxville, Tennessee

From the News Sentinel of March 3, 2008
Police identify teenager slain in home-invasion shootout

Authorities this morning said a 16-year-old Knoxville boy was killed during a weekend home break-in that prompted a gun battle inside the residence.

Jamodd Mack died in the 2:24 a.m. Saturday break-in at 1304 Iredell Ave., said Knoxville Police Department spokesman Darrell DeBusk.

Mack and another person allegedly forced their way into the home through a back door, DeBusk said. Inside the home, Mack, who was armed with a handgun, was fired upon by a man who was visiting the woman who lives in the house, DeBusk.

After the gun battle between the two people armed with handguns, Mack died in the house of multiple bullet wounds, DeBusk said. No one else in the home was injured during the gunfight, he said.

The second male fled and has not been identified, DeBusk said.

No charges have been filed in connection with the slaying. DeBusk said police planned to take their probe to the Knox County District Attorney General's office for a decision on bringing any charges.

Saturday, March 1, 2008

Alabama: Bullets don't deter suspect

Huntsville, Alabama

From the Huntsville Times of March 1, 2008
Bullets don't deter suspect

Shots to buttocks fail to stop two more break-ins

A six-foot fence, three dogs, 385 pounds worth of teenage boys and three gunshot wounds to the buttocks didn't stop one alleged burglar from bursting into two other homes before police detained him Thursday night.

Huntsville police were still trying to verify the suspect's identity Friday but believe he is 36-year-old Marvin Horton, police spokesman Wendell Johnson said.

Horton allegedly jumped a 6-foot chain-link fence at 2702 Ninth Ave. and dodged Brenda Glover's pit bull puppy, Rottweiler and German shepherd before forcing open her front door at about 11:15 p.m.

Glover said she went to bed early, but her two sons, 17-year-old David and 18-year-old Jerry, were up playing video games and heard the dogs bark seconds before the burglar crashed into their home.

Glover woke up and heard the man fighting with her sons, who managed to wrestle the man into a headlock. She grabbed an umbrella before entering the scuffle.

"I told him to leave, and he said, 'No I'm coming in the house,'" she said. "He still kept coming, and I told him, 'I'm going to go get my gun if you don't leave.'"

The three tried to push the man back out the front door, but he wouldn't budge, Glover said.

When the burglar didn't heed her warning, Glover retrieved her .38-caliber pistol and gave him a final chance to leave before firing a shot into his backside.

The first shot didn't register with the man, so Glover fired two more shots before he finally turned and ran back out the door. Glover's husband called police.

...

Johnson said it's unlikely any charges will be filed against any of the homeowners who struggled with Horton, including Glover.

"Usually, if there's any question regarding self defense, our investigators present it to the district attorney's office and consult with them," he said. "I don't think that will happen, though."

...

The incident wrapped up a difficult day for Glover, whose grandmother died Wednesday. But Glover said it's just another day on Ninth Avenue, where she often has had to ask homeless people to move out of her driveway when she comes home.

Glover said she bought the gun for protection, although she's never used it. Her car stereo has been stolen, and a thief snatched her husband's boots from the front porch, but she's never come face-to-face with someone determined to get in.

"I got the gun for protection when my kids were little," she said. "I always thought I would have to use it out and about, not in my own house. I never expected that."

More

Note for the Huntsville Times headline writer - when you shoot a burglar in the butt and he runs away, that's deterrence!

Maryland: Armed Man Fatally Shot by Security Guard

Prince George's County, Maryland

From the The Washington Post of March 1, 2008
Armed Man Fatally Shot by Security Guard

A private security guard shot and killed a 26-year-old man at an apartment complex near Glassmanor Elementary School in Oxon Hill yesterday morning, Prince George's County police said.

About 9 a.m., the guard approached two men in the 1000 block of Marcy Avenue, said Cpl. Arvel Lewis, a police spokesman. One of the men produced a handgun, and the guard opened fire, striking him, Lewis said. The other man fled the complex on foot.

The wounded man, later identified as Dominique Emanuel McFadden, of the 800 block of Marcy Avenue, died at a hospital. Police found a gun in his possession, Lewis said.

Lewis said police are looking for the other man, described as black, 18 to 20 years old, about 5 feet 8 inches tall and wearing a black jacket, blue jeans and a baseball cap.

Police have not identified the security guard.

Glassmanor Elementary School was locked down briefly after the shooting, but it had reopened by midday.

Lewis said it was unclear what caused the confrontation or whether the two men shot at the security guard. Lewis said that it appears that the security guard's action was justifiable but that an investigation of the shooting had to be completed.

"It appears that he was doing his job, which is to check on people within the apartment complex," Lewis said. McFadden "pulled a gun on the guard. . . . You've got to defend yourself, definitely."

California: Police: Boy, 13, shot man in self-defense

Visalia, California

From the Visalia Times Delta of February 29, 2008
Police: Boy, 13, shot man in self-defense

A Visalia woman whose common-law husband was shot and killed Wednesday was moving out of the couple's south Visalia home when the incident occurred, neighbors and police said.

Witnesses said Joe Ray Martinez, 38, tried to stop the woman from doing so and got into an altercation with another man.

"That's when [Martinez] drew a gun and threatened to shoot everyone, including kids," said Terry Anderson, a neighbor in the quiet cul-de-sac on South Thomas Street near Paradise Avenue.

One of the "kids" at the home was a 13-year-old boy.

The boy emerged from the home and shot Martinez in "a clear case of self-defense," Visalia Police Department Sgt. Ernie Villa said.

"There will be no arrests," Villa said.

History of violence, abuse

Martinez had a long history of violent behavior, with felony convictions in 2000 and 2001 for assault with a nonfirearm deadly weapon, according to court records.

Violence was common in the South Thomas Street home, Anderson said.

"The abuse was terrible for the other people living there," said Anderson, who said the family had moved into the house about four months ago.

Martinez also had 23 vehicle-code violations since 1993 and twice was convicted of misdemeanor witness-threatening, records show.

In 2001, he was convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm.

He had a gun Wednesday, too.

"[Martinez] waved the gun at everyone there," Villa said.

"All the stories from all the witnesses we talked to were consistent."

The case is now being handed over to the Tulare County District Attorney's Office.

Villa said he expects officials there to agree that the shooting was a matter of self-defense.

Further links:
13-Year-Old Shoots and Kills Man In Self Defense

Alabama: Albertville homeowner shoots backyard prowler

Albertville, Alabama

From the The Huntsville Times of February 29, 2008
Albertville homeowner shoots backyard prowler

A homeowner on Valley View Drive who found two men in his backyard early today shot one of them with a shotgun, according to Albertville police.

The resident woke up before 1:30 a.m. because of a noise in the backyard and saw two people with flashlights, said police Sgt. Jamie Smith.

The homeowner got a shotgun, confronted the pair from inside the house, Smith said, and fired.

Officers found a man in the backyard with a gunshot wound to his upper torso, but he was conscious and talking before he was flown to Huntsville Hospital, Smith said.

The shooting is still under investigation, said Smith, and it appears that no charges will be filed against the homeowner. Police are still looking for the other prowler.

North Carolina: Wounded man shoots intruder

Gaston, North Carolina

From the Daily Herald of March 1, 2008
Wounded man shoots intruder

A Gaston man shot and killed one of two intruders he discovered in his house Thursday night, Northampton County Sheriff Wardie Vincent said this morning.

Sheriff's office investigators are still looking into the shooting, in which 20-year-old Walter Daniels of Gaston died.

Vincent declined to discuss whether investigators are looking into the possibility of self-defense on the part of Monte Arrington, 21, who fired the shot during a struggle with Daniels.

Vincent said the fatal shooting occurred around 10 p.m., at Arrington's residence at 544 N.C. Highway 48, which is just inside the town limits of Gaston.

Arrington and his girlfriend were returning to the residence and were confronted by two men as they went in the home.

The best information investigators have thus far is that Daniels was armed and drew the weapon. That's when a struggle between Arrington and Daniels began. During the struggle, Arrington was stabbed but managed to grab the gun and shoot Daniels in the upper chest. It is believed Daniels died immediately, the sheriff said.

Arrington was transported to Halifax Regional Medical Center in Roanoke Rapids and then airlifted to Pitt Memorial Hospital in Greenville. His condition was not known.

Vincent said authorities continue to look for the other man in the house, who fled. The sheriff declined to disclose the man's name.

“The best we can understand is they broke in to burglarize the residence,” he said.

The State Bureau of Investigation was called in for assistance and the Gaston and Garysburg police departments helped with processing the crime scene.