Wednesday, April 30, 2008

Kansas: Burglar greeted by gunfire

Overland Park, Kansas

From the Kansas City Star of April 30, 2008
Burglar greeted by gunfire

Overland Park police are investigating a business burglary where an employee fired shots at a suspect. But the suspect, who may have been hit, was able to get away.

The incident occurred at 10:50 p.m. Tuesday at Ratliff Guttering Company in the 5000 block of Mackey Street.

Police said a company employee had been sleeping in an apartment inside the business when he heard a loud crash coming from the garage area. The employee grabbed a 12-gauge shotgun and went to the garage area to investigate.

The employee saw the garage door partially open and then saw a man inside near one of the company’s trucks. He then fired a shot and heard the man yell. The intruder then ran towards the garage door and the employee fired again.

Police found blood on the garage floor but could not find the intruder anywhere. They alerted hospitals and other area law enforcement agencies.

Tuesday, April 29, 2008

Texas: Security guard shoots, kills man outside northwest Houston club

Houston, Texas

From KHOU of April 24, 2008
Security guard shoots, kills man outside northwest Houston club

A man is dead after an altercation with a gentlemen's club security guard northwest Houston.

The shooting happened just after 1 a.m. on Antoine near Hempstead Road at the Casanova Men's Club.

Witnesses said it started when the security guard refused to let in two men who appeared to have been drinking. When the son tried to fight him, the guard sprayed them with pepper spray.

The father came over to the guard and started to threaten him, witnesses said. Then the father left, but returned with a gun.

The witness said the security guard pulled out his gun and ordered the man to drop his, and when he didn't, the guard fired two shots. Witnesses said he was forced to shoot to protect himself.

The victim died at the scene, and Houston police spent the morning interviewing witnesses. Houston police said the guard will not likely face charges, but the case will be referred to the Harris County District Attorney's Office.

New York: Man shoots bear chasing pet dog

Colesville, New York

From the Press & Sun Bulletin of April 21, 2008
Man shoots bear chasing pet dog

Rusvinder S. Sandhu, of Route 79, Colesville, shot and wounded a black bear who was chasing his pet dog around 1:18 a.m. Sunday.

After he let out his one-year-old Belgian Shepard to go to the bathroom, Sandhu heard incessant barking and upon looking out a sliding door with a flash light he found a medium sized black bear chasing the pet around the backyard, police said.

Sandhu retrieved a 7 mm magnum bolt action rifle and fired a single shot striking the bear in the neck and dropping him under a bird feeder, police said.

The bear was still alive when Broome County Sheriff's Deputy Kevin Mauser arrived, but the animal had to be dispatched with one 12 gauge shotgun slug for safety and humane purposes.

Sandhu told Mauser he was unaware bears in his area, but was now was able to figure out why his bird feeder had been knocked out of its location in a tree, according to a police report.

Texas: Clerk, Suspect Shot During Robbery

Houston, Texas

From Click2Houston of April 29, 2008
Clerk, Suspect Shot During Robbery

A clerk traded shots with two men during a robbery at a northwest Harris County convenience store late Monday, KPRC Local 2 reported.

Harris County sheriff's deputies said the men held up the clerk at the Phillips 66 station on Veteran's Memorial Drive near West Road at about 11:25 a.m.

The men opened fire on the clerk, who was working by himself, investigators said.

Deputies said the clerk pulled out a gun and fired back, wounding one of the men several times.

The clerk suffered one gunshot wound and was taken to Lyndon B. Johnson Hospital for treatment. He is expected to be OK.

The wounded suspect was taken to Ben Taub Hospital in critical condition.

Investigators said the second man got away.

Texas: Homeowner shoots, kills burglary suspect

San Antonio, Texas

From MySanAntionio of April 29, 2008
Homeowner shoots, kills burglary suspect

Police said a homeowner shot and killed a burglary suspect inside a Northeast Side home this morning.

The 18-year-old man male suspect was shot about 2:30 a.m. in the 5800 block of Midcrown after a male homeowner noticed the youth inside the man's house.

The suspect was pronounced dead at the scene. His identity has not been released this morning.

From the Houston Chronicle of April 30, 2008
One night after burglary, San Antonio man kills intruder

After his home was burglarized earlier this week, Thomas Thames decided to arm himself in case the intruder returned, police say.

The following night, he heard another noise at his home in the 5800 block of East Midcrown, so Thames, 39, walked downstairs. It was about 2:30 a.m. Tuesday when he once again saw a young man in his kitchen. The back door was open.

This time, Thames fired a gun at the man, who ran into the backyard, where Thames shot at him again, police said.

Ronnie Scarborough, 18, was pronounced dead at the scene.

San Antonio police spokesman Sgt. Gabe Trevino said the resident had pulled the man into his house and waited for police to arrive.

Police said the man killed at Thames' Northeast Side home Tuesday matched the description of a burglary suspect the resident said he chased from the home the night before.

Police said Tuesday that Thames likely won't be charged with a crime because Texas law gives homeowners latitude in protecting their property and themselves.

"A property owner, by Texas law, has the right to prevent the consequences of a burglary by utilizing deadly force if necessary," Trevino said.

More

Kentucky: Man who was shot during attempted break-in dies

Lexington, Kentucky

From the Lexington Herald-Leader of April 29, 2008
Man who was shot during attempted break-in dies

A man trying to break into a Lexington home early Tuesday died from injuries after a resident shot the man through the front door, Lexington police said.

About 6 a.m., a male resident at 2700 Chelsea Woods Court off Todds Road called police, saying he’d shot someone trying to break in through the front door, Lexington police Lt. Thomas Curtsinger said.

The resident, who has not been identified, told police that he was home with his girlfriend and brother when he heard someone trying to kick in the front door.

Armed with a handgun, the resident shot through the front door, striking the man once in his upper body, Curtsinger said.

The man was lying on the front porch near the home’s entrance when police arrived. Police do not think the man was armed.

The man, whose identification has not been released, was taken to University of Kentucky Hospital, where he died a short time later.

Curtsinger said the victim was a 36-year-old man who, according to vehicle registration, was from Woodford County. The victim’s white Dodge RAM 2500 was towed from the driveway of a vacant house across the street a few hours after the shooting.

The resident told police he did not recognize the man who tried to enter his house.

Curtsinger said Tuesday morning that it was too early for him to say whether the man who fired the handgun would face any charges.

From the Bluegrass Beat (Lexington Herald-Leader) of August 22, 2008
Grand jury declines to indict shooter

A Fayette County grand jury on Thursday declined to charge a man who shot and killed a man in April who was beating on his front door.

Tadarvis Gardner, 22, told police he was at his home, on Chelsea Woods Court, when he heard what he thought was someone trying to kick in the front door.

Gardner shot through the front door, fatally striking Andreas Lobsiger once in his upper body, police said.

Lobsiger, 36, who was unarmed, apparently had confused the house with a friend’s home that was three houses down, friends said. Lobsiger had been outside sleeping in a truck after a night of drinking.

Prosecutors presented the case to a grand jury this week. It declined to issue an indictment.

Monday, April 28, 2008

Texas: Restaurant Owner Fatally Shoots Intruder

Baytown, Texas

From Click2Houston of April 28, 2008
Restaurant Owner Fatally Shoots Intruder

A restaurant owner fatally shot a man who broke into his east Harris County business on Sunday, officials told KPRC Local 2.

Harris County sheriff's deputies said an alarm company notified the owner of 4 Corners BBQ that someone may have been inside the restaurant on Decker Road shortly before noon.

Investigators said the owner went to the business and found a broken window and a man inside.

The owner fired one shot inside the building, fatally wounding the man.

The man's identity was not released.

Detectives said the case would be referred to a Harris County grand jury without charges.

Tennessee: Would-be robber shot and killed in liquor store

Nashville, Tennessee

From the Tennessean of April 28, 2008
Would-be robber shot and killed in liquor store

A would-be robber at an Inglewood liquor store was shot and killed Saturday night after a customer opened fire, Metro police said.

Two men entered Sinkers Wine & Spirits on Gallatin Pike around 10 p.m. and attempted to rob the store with handguns, Capt. David Imhof said. During the robbery, a customer took out a handgun of his own and began a shootout, Imhof said.

One of the robbery suspects ran away, but the other collapsed outside the store, Imhof said. He was taken to Skyline Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.

The remaining suspect was still on the loose Sunday night, police said.

The customer who fired on the robbery suspects had a permit to carry a weapon, Imhof said.

"A citizen, like a police officer, has the right to utilize deadly force if there is a threat of serious bodily injury or harm," Imhof said.

The customer, described as in his early 20s, was interviewed and released by police. He has not been charged.

The case is under investigation, Imhof said.

California: LA mini market clerk fatally shoots would-be armed robber

Los Angeles, California

From the Mercury News of April 27, 2008
LA mini market clerk fatally shoots would-be armed robber

Los Angeles police say a mini market clerk has shot and killed an armed man who was trying to rob the business.

Officers responding to a shooting call Saturday afternoon in the San Fernando Valley found 30-year-old Marvin Sanchez lying on a sidewalk shot to death.

Investigators say Sanchez walked into the Del Gaudio mini market, pulled a handgun and demanded money. The male clerk grabbed a handgun and shot Sanchez.

The incident is under investigation.

Friday, April 25, 2008

Mississippi: Suspect shot during robbery

Hattiesburg, Mississippi

From the Hattiesburg American of April 11, 2008
Suspect shot during robbery

The Ellisville Police Department is investigating a Tuesday morning robbery that left one of the suspects wounded.

Police arrested Ronald Hinton, 18, of Richton, Thomas Hardy, 22, and Matthew King, 19, both of Ellisville.

Investigator Christy Carona said the three men broke into the storage home of Jack Busby on the 200 block of Cleveland Street and attempted to take two air-conditioning units.

She said Busby found the men and held them at gunpoint until police arrived. Busby later shot King in the lower back after he attempted to flee the scene.

Carona said King was transported to South Central Regional Medical Center's emergency room where he was treated and released.

All three men were charged with grand larceny and taken to the Jones County Adult Detention Center on a $5,000 bond each.

Carona said King has made bond and that the other men remained at the detention center.

Wednesday, April 23, 2008

North Carolina: Home Invaders Get Shot At

Statesville, North Carolina

From April 17, 2008 WSCO channel 9:
Statesville officers drove slowly and watched closely as they patrolled the neighborhood where gunshots erupted along School Street on Wednesday afternoon. A day care center is just yards away.

Margaret Campbell, a concerned neighbor, said, "It's dangerous for the day care and the neighbors. I'm a senior citizen I can't walk fast, much less run."

Detectives said the frightening incident started when a man with a gun broke into a house, demanded money and then fired a warning shot. That's when a robbery turned into a shootout.

According to detectives, the gunman shot at the house while he ran away. At the same time, two of the victims inside shot at the robber.

Michigan: Store Clerk Exchanges Gunfire With Robber

Wyoming, Michigan

From April 19, 2008 WOOD channel 8:

WYOMING, Mich (WOOD) - Three armed robberies occured in less than 45 minutes late Thursday night, but police are not officially linking the incidents. Two suspects are in custody for one of the robberies, and are undergoing questioning.

In the last of the three, shots were fired. One of the store clerks exchanged gunfire with the robber. The bullet pierced a metal cabinet wall and struck Hung Ngyn in the leg. Ngyn, 42, is being released from the hospital and is said to be doing well Friday.

Two men, one with a gun, went into Gerk's Party Works on 36th St. around 11:15 p.m. and demanded money. That's when the exchange of gunfire took place. Police aren't sure if anyone was hit.

A police dog tracked the men after they ran from the store, but lost their scent in an area where investigators think they got in a car and took off.

Robbery Victim Shoots Robber With Own Gun

Cleveland, Tennessee

From the April 21, 2008 Cleveland [Tennessee] Daily Banner:
One person was shot today during an alleged kidnapping and robbery which unfolded at an Oak Street address. The victim of the kidnapping and robbery was apparently the person who struggled with one of the alleged offenders and caused a gun to go off.

Police were called to 383 Oak St. SW after being alerted of the incident.

Luis Velasquez was found bleeding from his head and face, according to reports. Josh Dunn, 20, has been charged with especially aggravated kidnapping and especially aggravated robbery.

A second suspect has not been charged; however, warrants are pending against Josh Snyder, 19.

Snyder was reportedly shot when Velasquez began to try to wrestle the gun away from Snyder.

According to reports, the suspects went to Velasquez' door and asked him to help them jump start a vehicle.

One of the suspects pulled a gun, then forced Velasquez back into his home.

At that point, Dunn and Snyder allegedly demanded money from Velasquez.

Reports indicated the suspects began to beat Velasquez after he stated he had only a small amount of cash.

During the alleged beating, Snyder apparently cut his hand and had placed the gun under his arm while attempting to clean blood from his hand.

Velasquez then went for the gun and it discharged, according to reports.

New York: Robbery victim kills intruder

Queens, New York

From the New York Daily News of April 23, 2008
Robbery victim kills intruder

The victim of a robbery in Queens fatally shot one of the three intruders early Tuesday morning with a gun they left behind, police said.

A man and his girlfriend were returning to their Middle Village apartment about 4:50 a.m. when they were confronted by three men, police said.

According to the victim, the men forced the couple into the apartment, where they tied them up with plans to rob the place, cops said.

Somehow, the victim was able to get loose and grab a gun one of the suspects had left unattended, he told police. He shot one of his attackers in the head, killing him.

The other two fled.

No arrests had been made last night.

Police continued to question the victim, who neighbors said kept odd hours and was unfriendly.

"We didn't think they belonged in a neighborhood like this," said one neighbor in the family friendly area. "No one ever said hello or goodbye to them, and we preferred it that way."

Jewelry Store Owner Shoots At Robbers

Miramar, Florida

From the April 23, 2008 South Florida Sun-Sentinel:
The robbery happened about 10:45 a.m. at Emily's Jewelry in the 14400 block of Miramar Parkway, police spokesman Bill Robertson said.

The men, one of whom had a gun, barged into the store while owners Rafael and Idia Esquivel were inside.

The armed man pointed the gun at the couple, and the other grabbed a bag of jewelry on the counter, Robertson said.

As the robbers fled into a waiting car, Rafael Esquivel chased them and fired three shots, Robertson said.

Detectives do not know if Esquivel, 61, struck either robber, the spokesman said.

Milwaukee Man Defends Himself From Roommate

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

From the April 14, 2008 Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel:

A man who was shot to death about 3:45 a.m. Saturday in a flat in the 2900 block of S. 7th St. has been identified as Joseph Biando, 40.

Police said Sunday that Biando had first fired a shotgun at a 29-year-old man who was living in the same flat. Police declined to name the younger man. They said he was unarmed when he was hit by a blast from the shotgun, got a handgun and shot Biando more than once. The younger man is hospitalized but is expected to live.

As of Sunday, police were not characterizing the shooting as a criminal homicide. Prosecutors will likely review the case and determine whether to charge anyone or rule the incident a justifiable homicide.

Houston Homeowner Shoots Car Thief

Houston, Texas

From April 15, 2008 KHOU channel 11:

HOUSTON -- A burglary suspect is in the hospital after he was shot by a homeowner early Tuesday morning.

It happened at Kiley and Remington Springs, just east of downtown.

A little after 3:30 a.m., the homeowner heard noise coming from his driveway, looked out and reportedly saw the suspect breaking into one of his cars. He got a gun and went outside to confront the suspect.

Words were exchanged, and the suspect was allegedly inside the car. When he tried to run, the homeowner shot him once.

Dallas Homeowner Shoots Burglar

Dallas, Texas

From April 18, 2008 Fox News channel 4:
An Oak Cliff homeowner told police that he was awakened around 1:30 Friday morning by the sound of breaking glass.

The man grabbed a handgun and discovered two men inside his home in the 6100 block of Teague Drive, according to police.

One of the men was still holding a board that they had used to break the window.

Police said the homeowner started shooting and hit one of the suspects in the upper chest and jaw. That suspect is in critical condition at Baylor Hospital.

The other burglar ran from the home and has not been found.

The case will be referred to a Grand Jury, but investigators said the homeowner appeared to be justified in protecting his life and property.

Monday, April 21, 2008

Colorado: Home intruder shot in Douglas County

Douglas County, Colorado

From the Denver Post of April 22, 2008
Home intruder shot in Douglas County

Investigators are questioning a Douglas County homeowner about a shooting death at his home.

Sheriff's deputies on Sunday responded to a call about an intruder at 11961 S. Highway 83 and a report that the homeowner had shot the intruder, according to a press release from the Douglas County Sheriff's Office.

Deputies found the body of a man inside the home and are interviewing the homeowner in an attempt to find out what happened, the sheriff's office said.

The Douglas County Coroner's Office and investigators are trying to determine the identity of the dead man.

The incident remains under investigation.

The sheriff's office did not release the name of the homeowner.

Friday, April 18, 2008

California: Oakland liquor store worker shoots robbery suspect

Oakland, California

From the San Francisco Chronicle of April 18, 2008
Oakland liquor store worker shoots robbery suspect

An employee of an Oakland liquor store shot and wounded a would-robber, police said today.

The incident happened about 9:30 p.m. Thursday at the Wah Fay liquor store near the corner of East 21st Street and Eighth Avenue in the city's San Antonio neighborhood, police Sgt. Larry Krupp said.

The employee opened fire after two men entered the store and demanded money, police said. The injured suspect, whose name was not immediately released, was taken to a local hospital. The wounds did not appear to be life-threatening, authorities said. It was not immediately known what happened to the other suspect.

The shooting comes at a time of heightened concern over robberies in the East Bay.

Police in Oakland, Emeryville and Berkeley are investigating a series of eight takeover robberies at restaurants over the past month. Oakland police are also trying to identify a man they have dubbed the "Chicken Hawk" because of his tendency to rob fast-food restaurants that serve chicken.

The liquor-store shooting also underscores the measures some store employees are taking.

In April 2007, the owner of a pizzeria at 89th Avenue and International Boulevard in East Oakland shot and killed a would-be robber armed with an assault rifle. A month later, a clerk at a liquor store on 28th Avenue in Oakland shot and killed a 17-year-old who had fired first.

Wednesday, April 16, 2008

Arizona: Homeowner Shoots Burglar

Mesa, Arizona

From KPHO of April 16, 2008
Homeowner Shoots Burglar

An early-morning break-in turned fatal when the homeowner shot the intruder, Mesa police said.

The homeowner, his wife and another person woke to the sound of someone breaking into their home shortly after 2:15 a.m., police said.

The wife ran to a closet to call 911 while her husband confronted the armed intruder.

Police said the husband struggled with the intruder and shot the burglar with his own gun.

Rescue crews pronounced the burglar dead at the scene.

Police said a second would-be intruder was waiting outside the home and was arrested.

Investigators said the incident may be drug-related.

Tuesday, April 15, 2008

Florida: Guard Shoots Man In Run Over Attempt

Orlando, Florida

From Local6 of April 15, 2008
Guard Shoots Man In Run Over Attempt

A security guard at an apartment complex parking lot shot and injured the driver of a vehicle who attempted to run him over, according to police.

Investigators said a Security Staffing Solutions guard became involved in the dispute with three men at the Lake Weston Pointe Apartments located at 2201 Lake Weston Drive on Monday night.

After the argument escalated, one of the men tried to back over the guard, a police report said.

The guard fired several shots into the vehicle, striking the driver in the arm and back.

The driver was transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center. He was expected to recover from the injuries.

The two other men with the driver were detained and questioned by police.

The Orange County Sheriff's Office is investigating the shooting.

Tennessee: Man acted in self defense in fatal Lexington shooting, police preliminary report says

Lexington, Tennessee

From the Jackson Sun of April 14, 2008
Man acted in self defense in fatal Lexington shooting, police preliminary report says

Lexington police have released the man they had held for questioning in connection with Saturday's fatal shooting at the BP Major Market parking lot.

The man had been held since Saturday night.

Police said the preliminary investigation shows that the man acted in self defense in the shooting that killed 32-year-old Tommy Ray Dill, Jr.

Monday, April 14, 2008

Alabama: Would-be Scottsboro robber gets shot in stomach, hospitalized

Scottsboro, Alabama

From the The Huntsville Times of April 14, 2008
Would-be Scottsboro robber gets shot in stomach, hospitalized

A would-be thief was shot in the stomach as he tried to rob a man over the weekend and is recovering in Tennessee, where he fled after the incident in Scottsboro, police said Monday.

Scottsboro Police Chief Ralph Dawe said the suspect, whose name has not been released, tried to rob a man near Highlands Medical Center around 2 a.m. Saturday.

He said the robbery target pulled a gun and shot the suspect in the abdomen. The suspect then fled to Chattanooga, Tenn., where he is being treated at Erlanger Hospital.

Dave said there were outstanding arrest warrants for the man on first-degree robbery charges for a similar incident at a local Wal-Mart and he will be extradited back to Alabama when his medical condition improves.

He said the information compiled so far provides no reason to charge the person who shot the robbery suspect.

Dave said Tennessee authorities contacted their Alabama counterparts after the man gave differnt versions of how he ended up with the gunshot wound.

"He gave several stories, but all accounts of what happened involved Scottsboro, so they called us," Dawe said.

Sunday, April 13, 2008

Florida: Store Owner Shoots Would-Be Robber

Orlando, Florida

From the Central Florida News of April 13, 2008
Store Owner Shoots Would-Be Robber

A robbery suspect remained in critical condition after being shot Saturday night by the owner of a grocery store on Old Cheney Highway.

Deputies said three suspects entered the store with weapons, with the intention of robbing the store.

The store owner also pulled out a gun, and shot one of the suspects.

The other two suspects left the store, and got away in dark SUV before deputies arrived.

The investigation, and the search for the other two suspects, continued Sunday.

Texas: Woman Shoots At, Terrifies Intruder

Friendswood, Texas

From Click2Houston of April 12, 2008
Woman Shoots At, Terrifies Intruder

Police said a woman shot at an intruder, scaring him directly through a glass door.

Officers with the Friendswood Police Department said they responded to a residence in the 400 block of Regency Court after a homeowner shot at a man that had broken into her home.

The woman said that at about 11:15 a.m. on April 12, she awoke to a loud noise followed by her alarm system sounding. She then heard footsteps going up to her second floor.

The woman said she grabbed her pistol and walked into the living room where she saw a man standing in her house. She fired a shot in the man's direction, which sent him running through -- and shattering -- a glass door as he fled the scene.

The homeowner was not hurt.

The intruder was described as a dark skinned black man, approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall. He was last seen wearing a blue T-shirt with white lettering, dark shorts and dark colored tennis shoes. He was clean-shaven, had a short hairstyle and appeared to be well groomed.

Officers said they searched the surrounding neighborhood and businesses but were not able to find the man. They said the investigation is ongoing.

Saturday, April 12, 2008

Oklahoma: Homeowner Shoots Intruder

Moore, Oklahoma

From KSBI of April 11, 2008
Homeowner Shoots Intruder

A man who broke into a home received quite a shock.

The break-in happened just before 12:00 p.m. at 1300 Odom Way in Moore. The two homeowners were at home in bed when they heard someone inside.

Police say the man shot the intruder after discovering he had broken in. He then held the man at gunpoint until police arrived.

Alex Downing, 38, received non-life threatening injuries. He was arrested for first degree burglary.

Police are looking for a possible accomplice. They say a black male with a stocky build drove away in a light green Nissan Maxima.

You can call the Moore Police Department if you have any information at 793-5171.

Thursday, April 10, 2008

Florida: Man Shoots Self In Leg Defending SUV

St. Petersburg, Florida

From the Tampa Bay Online of April 9, 2008
Man Shoots Self In Leg Defending SUV

A man shot himself in the leg about 6 a.m. today as he wrestled with someone trying to break into his SUV in St. Petersburg, said George Kajtsa of the St. Petersburg Police Department.

Police found Richard X. Summers,39, wounded in the upper leg and holding down 18-year-old Marlos M. Conrad.

Kajtsa said Conrad, of 3801 W. Wallace Ave., Tampa, followed Summers' fiancé into their housing complex at 10265 Gandy Boulevard while she was driving a GMC Yukon Denali. She exited the SUV, someone tripped the alarm and she yelled for Summers.

Police say Summers, armed with a handgun, confronted Conrad inside the SUV. They struggled and the gun went off.

Conrad is being held at Pinellas County Jail on charges of strong-arm robbery and auto burglary.

Missouri: Woman holds burglar at gunpoint

Dadeville, Missouri

From Ky3 of April 9, 2008
Woman holds burglar at gunpoint

A burglar in southern Cedar County found himself in a standoff this week -- not with police but with a 57-year-old woman armed with a pistol and training for a conceal-and-carry permit. She held the burglar at bay until police could arrive to arrest him at the rural home where whe found him in the closet.

(See video at site for more details)

Monday, April 7, 2008

Mississippi: Property owner shoots at scrap metal thieves

Vicksburg, Mississippi

From the Vicksburg Post of April 7, 2008
Property owner shoots at scrap metal thieves

Warren County Sheriff's deputies were investigating an attempted theft that led to one person being shot, said Sheriff Martin Pace.

A man who owns property on Standard Hill off Sherman Avenue saw two people, who had been dropped off by a third person, in the process of stealing scrap metal off his land. The property owner shot in their direction, which caused them to run off, and grabbed the driver of the vehicle. While he held the driver at gunpoint and waited for deputies to arrive, 911 received a report of a person having been shot in the leg on Sherman Avenue.

"Although the person who was shot is not admitting to trying to take the metal, it's clearly going to be related," Pace said.

What appears to be a bullet hole was also found in the vehicle, which has been impounded and will be part of the investigation. Pace said this morning that no one had been arrested, but deputies will retrieve statements from all who were involved and present them to District Attorney Ricky Smith, who then will determine if any charges will be filed against either the suspects or the property owner.

Illinois: Stillman Valley houseguest shoots, kills intruder; 2 others sought

Stillman Valley, Illinois

From the Rockford Register Star of April 7, 2008
Stillman Valley houseguest shoots, kills intruder; 2 others sought

uthorities are working this morning to identify a young man who was shot and killed after he broke into a rural home near Stillman Valley, Ogle County Sheriff Gregory Beitel said.

About 11 p.m. Sunday, a man staying at a home in the 9100 block of Meridian Road awakened to the sound of shattered glass and grabbed a handgun after realizing people were inside, Beitel said. The man told deputies at least three people broke into the house, one of whom entered his bedroom and then fled, Beitel said.

The houseguest then left the bedroom and came face to face, Beitel said, with a man aiming a firearm at him. The houseguest then fired twice, killing the man, Beitel said.

“He walked out of the bedroom and there was this guy right in front of him, coming out of the other room,” Beitel said. “He fired in self-defense.”

Beitel said it’s too soon in the investigation to know whether the houseguest will be charged with a crime.

He described the deceased as a young, white man with sandy brown hair and a thin build. He said the man had no identification on him. Deputies recovered a long gun next to the man and a pistol on the floor, several feet from him, Beitel said. Detectives are trying to determine whether those weapons belonged to the man or the homeowner, as they also recovered at least a dozen firearms hidden around the perimeter of the property.

“At this point, we don’t know whether they brought them with them,” Beitel said. “We know the homeowner was an avid sportsman and had a large collection of firearms.”

Officials also are searching for two other men who fled the house, possibly in a vehicle, Beitel said. Late Sunday, a search party including Winnebago County sheriff’s deputies, state troopers and a helicopter scanned the rural area, which is about 2.5 miles north of Stillman Valley, just south of the Winnebago-Ogle county line.

Investigators also will follow leads in Rockford today, he said.

Beitel would not release the name of the houseguest or the homeowner, but described them both as adult men.

Friday, April 4, 2008

Michigan: Pizza delivery driver shoots teens, police say

Detroit, Michigan

From the Detroit Free Press of March 27, 2008
Pizza delivery driver shoots teens, police say

A pizza delivery driver shot two teens who tried to rob him east of downtown Detroit Thursday night, Detroit Police said.

The teens, 14 and 16, were taken to local hospitals; their conditions were listed as temporary serious, police said.

The delivery driver had a permit to carry a concealed weapon, police said.

The teens had ordered a pizza be delivered to a vacant lot in the 600 block of St. Aubin St. about 9:55 p.m., police said.

Louisiana: Attempted carjacking victim accidentally shoots self

Shreveport, Louisiana

From KTBS of April 2, 2008
Attempted carjacking victim accidentally shoots self

A man accidentally shot himself last night after an attempted carjacking. Police were called to the 4400 block of Pines Road around midnight.

The victim was sitting in his car at a gas station when he was approached by two black males wearing all black clothing and black bandanas over their faces.

They produced a silver revolver and demanded the car. The victim refused and produced his own handgun.

He accidentally shot himself in the leg, and the suspects fled the scene. The victim then went inside the gas station and told the clerk what happened.

Texas: Homeowner Shoots Suspect After 2 Break-Ins

Houston, Texas

From Click2Houston of April 3, 2008
Homeowner Shoots Suspect After 2 Break-Ins

A southeast Houston homeowner shot a burglary suspect Thursday afternoon after he was victimized twice in a week, officials told KPRC Local 2.

Thomas Williamson lives in the 6000 block of Bois D'arc. He said he stayed home from work on Thursday after a burglar hit his home twice in a few days.

Williamson said he looked out his window at about 1 p.m. and saw a man walk across his back yard. The man went into Williamson's garage and tried to steal an air compressor, worth about $400, he said.

When the burglary suspect walked out of the garage with bolt cutters, Williamson said he grabbed his shotgun.

"He came to the door and I went, 'Get on the ground. Get on the ground.' He got on the ground and I told him, 'Do not move,'" he said. "I was shaking. I had him on the ground with my shotgun and I told him, 'Do not move.' I was even yelling. I fired one shot in the ground just to show him I meant business."

Williamson said he shot the man when he tried to run. The burglary suspect was taken to Ben Taub Hospital with a gunshot wound. His condition was not released.

The District Attorney's Office said charges would probably not be filed because Williamson was protecting his property.

Texas: Clerk shoots, kills suspected thief

Houston, Texas

From KHOU of April 4, 2008
Clerk shoots, kills suspected thief

Houston Police still have some questions about an overnight shooting that left a reported thief dead.

Police say the apparent victim, a store clerk, pulled the trigger.

It happened at a store on Broadway and Glover just after 11 p.m. in southeast Houston.

Police say two suspected thieves went into the Colony Express Market and robbed the clerk inside.

It happened at closing time.

When the two were leaving, police say, the clerk shot the men.

One of the suspected thieves was killed and the second man got away.

The search is on for that suspect.

Police are also looking into to see if there is surveillance video of the crime.

Kentucky: Bowling Green Intruder Killed

Bowling Green, Kentucky

From WKBO of April 3, 2008
Bowling Green Intruder Killed

A shooting on April 3 at a Bowling Green home on Creekwood Court shocks area.

Police received a 911 call at about 5:15 p.m from a man who claims he shot a burglar attempting to break into his home.

Investigators and the coroner were on the scene.

"The homeowner confronted the burglar coming in the back door, according to his statements, and then shot the person, and that person is now deceased."

The burglar has not yet been identified and the investigation is continuing.

Indiana: Clerk Wrestles Gun From Would-Be Robber

Indianapolis, Indiana

From the Indy Channel of April 4, 2008
Clerk Wrestles Gun From Would-Be Robber

A gas station attendant was back on the job Thursday night, days after he wrestled a shotgun away from a would-be robber.

Dramatic surveillance video of the incident at the Shell station at 38th Street and Capitol Avenue was released Thursday, 6News' Cheryl Jackson reported.

Clerk Deme Momar found himself in a fight for his life soon after the would-be robber came into the store.

"The clerk recognized him from coming in and out and being around the neighborhood," said Indianapolis Metro police Detective Leon Benjamin.

The man waited for a customer to leave the store, then convinced Momar that he needed help with the ATM machine.

"His plan was to lure the clerk from behind the secure area where the cash register was located," Benjamin said.

Momar made an exception to store policy and went to help the man, after which he was greeted with a sawed-off shotgun.

"It's not easy if someone pulls out a gun on you and you are between life and death," Momar said. "He ... pulled out a shotgun on me and we fight and I take the gun out of his hand."

The struggle continued for several minutes, until Momar was able to get the gun away from the man.

"I let him go because I didn't know what ... to do. I couldn't shoot him, and he was begging me to let him go," Momar said. "Even if I go back there and give him the money, he will shoot me, too."

When Momar got the gun, the would-be robber's demeanor changed from attack mode to defenseless.

"He thought I was trying to shoot him, so he said to me, 'Please, I'm begging you, don't shoot me. Let me go. Let me go,'" Momar said.

Police and Momar both said they think the man lives in the neighborhood.

"He stay around here, not so far, and he used to drive a green (Ford) Explorer, two-door," Momar said. "That day, he was walking."

Momar said he decided not to let the robbery attempt keep him from returning to work.

Thursday, April 3, 2008

Michigan: Suspects caught in April Fool twist

Niles, Michigan

From the Niles Daily Star of April 3, 2008
Suspects caught in April Fool twist

Three suspects received an April Fool's Day surprise as they attempted to break into a home on Range Line Road.

At approximately 1:20 p.m. on Tuesday, April 1, a home owner called 911, saying the back door of her residence was kicked in, according to the Michigan State Police Niles Post.

Apparently a female suspect had knocked on the door and when no one answered, two male suspects allegedly attempted a home invasion.

Three suspects from Indiana were arrested and are suspected in several other home invasions in Southeast Berrien County.

The 36-year-old female homeowner had armed herself with a shotgun for protection, when she heard the suspects prepare to enter her residence.

"The tables were turned on these thieves when they were surprised by the armed homeowner," said Tpr. Mike McCarthy of the Niles Post.

The north Berrien County 911 center broadcast the call and description of the suspects' vehicle, which was intercepted on Old 31 by deputies and troopers.

Stolen property was found in the vehicle which was linked to previous home invasions.

Arrested for felony home invasion were Daniel L. Sizemore, 28; Phillip J. Chappell, 29 and Andrea L. Bachleda, 27, all of South Bend, Ind.

They were lodged at the Niles City Jail and arraigned in the 5th District Court and their bond was set at $50,000.

The Berrien County Sheriff's Department assisted with the investigation. Other area home invasions are expected to be cleared with the arrests of these suspects.

Ohio: Tenant kills would-be robber, police say

Columbus, Ohio

From the Columbus Dispatch of April 3, 2008
Tenant kills would-be robber, police say

A gunman who police say kicked in the door to an East Side apartment was shot to death by one of the tenants early today.

Jermaine A. McCrary, 19, of Ashville died of a single gunshot wound to the head after breaking into an apartment at 2936 E. Fifth Ave. at 1:47 a.m.

Sgt. Dana Norman of the homicide squad said McCrary intended to rob the occupants, a man and woman who told police that they didn't know him.

McCrary pistol-whipped the man before he was shot by one of the tenants.

Terrified, the residents ran out of the apartment and several blocks west before finding someone to call police.

Norman wouldn't say which tenant fired the shot, and he would not release their names.

He said the case will be presented to a grand jury but appeared to one of self-defense. Neither tenant has been charged with a crime.

Wednesday, April 2, 2008

Florida: Security Guard Shot, Returns Fire in North Miami

North Miami, Florida

From the March 31, 2008 Miami Herald:
A shooting outside a North Miami-Dade shopping plaza Sunday morning left a security guard wounded, a man dead and another on the run, Miami-Dade police said.

The wild scene played out at around 9 a.m. as early-morning shoppers began arriving at the center anchored by a Winn-Dixie supermarket at Northwest Seventh Avenue and 111th Street.

It's unclear yet what sparked the incident, but it may have been a confrontation between two young men and the guard, and not an attempted robbery.

''There are a lot of customers who did see what happened and we are interviewing them as well,'' said Robert Williams, a spokesman for the Miami-Dade Police Department.

An aunt of the dead man said the victim was 19 years old, according to Miami Herald news partner CBS4. She said she did not believe her nephew was involved in a crime.

''I don't know what happened in the parking lot, what went on,'' said Antoinette Cobb, who told the station she was the dead man's aunt. ``I want to know what happened. . . . The police are not giving me any information.''

Witnesses said the security guard appeared to be making his rounds at the center in a golf cart when he was approached by the men.

There was a confrontation that escalated. Investigators said one of the men pulled a gun and shot the guard in the upper chest. The guard returned fire, hitting one of the men, who fell in the parking lot.

The second man took off into a neighborhood just northeast of the shopping center.

The security guard along with the other man were taken to Jackson Memorial Hospital's Ryder Trauma Hospital, Williams said. The wounded man was declared dead at the hospital. His name has not been released.

SHOT IN TORSO

The security guard, who was shot in the upper torso, was undergoing surgery. He also had not been identified Sunday night.

''Right now we do not have a motive,'' Williams said, adding that homicide investigators are still conducting interviews.

Detectives need to talk to the hospitalized security guard for a clear picture of what sparked the violence.

''We do not know yet if robbery was the motive. We want to make absolutely sure that that was the motive for this so we need to talk to that security guard to get a statement from him,'' Williams said.