Friday, October 31, 2008

Montana: Hunter shoots grizzly in 'self defense'

Marias Pass, Montana

From the Montana News Station of October 31, 2008
Hunter shoots grizzly in 'self defense'

A hunter says he was defending himself when he shot a grizzly bear in Western Montana.

The Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks said an adult female grizzly charged Shawn Damschen of Coram on Monday near Marias Pass.

FWP said Damschen reported the adult bear and two younger ones approached him. He said he yelled and the younger bears ran off, but the sow charged.

Damschen fired two shots from his rifle at a distance of about 10 feet, and hit the bear.

Later a wildlife warden, Damschen and a companion returned to the area and found the wounded bear.

The warden killed it.

Florida: Dog bites man; man shoots at dog

Plantation, Florida

From the Miami Herald of November 1, 2008
Dog bites man; man shoots at dog

A Labrador mix had its tail nicked by a bullet after the dog attacked a man in a Plantation neighborhood on Wednesday, according to Plantation police.

The man had a concealed weapons permit, said police spokesman Detective Robert Rettig.

The confrontation happened shortly after 3 p.m. in the 10100 block of Southwest Third Street.

The man was walking down a driveway to the street when the dog attacked him, Rettig said.

So the man fired a shot at the dog, nicking its tail.

The man suffered a minor dog bite. The dog had an injured tail. Both are expected to recover.

Ohio: Homeowner Shoots Break-in Suspect in Head, Deputies Say

Gallia County, Ohio

From WSAX of October 31, 2008
Homeowner Shoots Break-in Suspect in Head, Deputies Say

Taking the law into your own hands. That's what a local homeowner did when he caught a thief breaking into his storage shed. Armed with his shotgun, one shot was all it took and the burglary came to an abrupt end.

“I woke up and heard the alarm and came out at 3:30 in the morning,” Ivan Hurt said.

Hurt lives alone in rural northern Gallia County. He has a shed full of equipment he values and fiercely protects it. That's why when two men broke into the building early Friday morning, Ivan was ready.

“I saw him come, and he turned like this and he had a flashlight in one hand and something else in the other, so I shot,” Hurt said.

Mr. Hurt wasted no time, he was barely out of his house when he pulled the trigger from more than 30 yards away.

“You see this spray pattern. That’s what happens when you shoot from so far away. I didn’t want to kill anyone, and it still makes me sick that I even had to wound someone. I’ve been robbed before and that’s when I installed an alarm so I could be ready,” Hurt said.

“There are a lot of thefts because people are stealing to get their drugs,” said Gallia County Sheriff David Martin.

Martin said thefts are up nationally and that includes Gallia County. He said residents are tired of it and they're not going to take it anymore.

“The law protects you if you feel there is imminent danger to you or family members,” said Gallia County Prosecutor Jeff Adkins.

And if there's any doubt about what the man was up to, Hurt said he left an incriminating piece of evidence behind.

“This is a mask he was wearing, and you can even see the blood from where he was hit,” said Hurt.

Ronald J. Johnson was the suspect and shooting victim. He was in fair condition Friday evening at St. Mary's Medical Center in Huntington. The second suspect got away. Police are still searching for him. Both men will face charges.

There was no word on whether Hurt will be charged with anything. Prosecutors will decide whether he acted negligently or in self defense.

Kansas: Liquor Store Clerk Holds Shoplifter at Gunpoint

Topeka, Kansas

From WIBW of October 29, 2008
Liquor Store Clerk Holds Shoplifter at Gunpoint

A store clerk is earning praise from some in the community for holding a would-be shoplifter at gunpoint until police arrived.

CJ said she became suspicious when two men in their 20's came into the store shortly before 7p.m. Tuesday, and headed straight for a corner of the store and talked about not having much money.

"They realized I was watching them the entire time they were in here," said CJ, who did not want to give her last name. "They went and picked up a half gallon of Kentucky Deluxe."

CJ said the two brought the bottle up to the counter and she rang it up. One of the men took off his shoe, looking for money. "His buddy was standing by him and grabbed the bottle and bolted out the door," CJ said.

CJ said she had another customer in line lock the door. She grabbed the phone and her gun and called police. CJ said the man seemed surprised when she held him at gunpoint. "He looked dumbfounded. I don't think he realized I would be carrying a gun."

CJ said the two men had a vehicle on the west side of the store, which is where the first ran after taking the bottle. She said the man she held inside the store was cooperative with police.

"One got away; I wasn't gonna let the other get away. He went to jail instead."

Officials say CJ did nothing illegal. "The supervisor that worked the scene out there felt that she was justified and within the confines of the law," said Capt. Jerry Stanley, Topeka Police Department.

Stanley said it's important for people with conceal and carry permits like CJ, know when to expose the weapon.

"In this case we're looking at under $20 worth of merchandise and a loaded firearm pointed at a person," said Stanley. "Want to make sure they're properly trained and have proper judgment."

CJ said a gun may not be for everyone, but people with jobs like her's should take precautions to protect themselves. "Take self-defense classes. Go through the training. Go through conceal and carry classes if you choose to carry a gun. Learn how to use it. Learn when to use it," CJ advises. "Just be safe."

CJ received her conceal and carry license in July 2007 and says she carries it with her at all times. "We have to protect what's ours and not let them walk all over the top of us. Next time they might not be so lucky to walk out."

Police and CJ agree the situation had a positive outcome. "This situation definitely worked its way out and came to a positive conclusion," said Capt. Stanley.

"If it happens again, hopefully, it turns out like it did last night and the guy goes to jail instead of going to the morgue," said CJ. "The police officers can't be everywhere at the same time and it's up to the community to help them do their job, and that's putting the bad guys in jail."

Missouri: Cape Girardeau woman shoots, kills would-be rapist at her home

Cape Girardeau, Missouri

From the Southeast Missourian of October 31, 2008
Cape Girardeau woman shoots, kills would-be rapist at her home

A Cape Girardeau woman shot and fatally wounded Ronnie W. Preyer, 47, a registered sex offender who had broken into her home early this morning with the intention of raping her a second time, Cape Girardeau Prosecuting Attorney Morley Swingle said today.

Swingle said he will not be charging the victim, an older woman who positively identified Preyer this morning as the man who raped her on Saturday.

"It is clear that under Missouri's self-defense law the woman was justified in using deadly force upon the intruder in her home because he was in the process of burglarizing her home when she shot him," Swingle wrote in a letter to police chief Carl Kinnison.

Cape Girardeau police had been keeping a close eye on the woman's home, in the southwest part of Cape Girardeau, since she reported the rape nearly a week ago.

In that instance, she'd heard the glass break in a basement window around midnight on Saturday, and decided to make a run for it through her front door, according to police reports of the incident. When she opened the door, Preyer attacked her.

He punched her in the face and forced her into the bedroom, where he raped her.

She reported the rape that night, and described her rapist.

Police were actively working the unsolved rape case, Swingle said, and had been frequently driving past the woman's home in case her attacker returned.

This morning, the woman called 911 after hearing a car door close near her residence. An officer responded, checked the doors and windows, including the one that had been broken during the first attack.

Her landlord had recently repaired the window for her, Swingle said.

Once the officer determined that no one had entered the home, he left.

About two hours later, the woman was at home watching television, when Preyer broke the same basement window and came in, getting the still-wet calking on his clothing as he did so, police reports said.

He found a main fuse panel in the basement and shut off the electricity. The victim immediately tried to call 911, but the phone would not work because there was no electric.

Having recently purchased a shotgun, she grabbed the weapon and when Preyer began banging on the basement door, she was ready for him. When he crashed through the basement door into her kitchen, she shot him once in the chest and ran, heading for a neighbor's house, where she called the police.

It only took officers 45 seconds to respond to the 911 call, Swingle said.

When they arrived, they saw Preyer stumbling away from the home, and an officer ordered him to stop. When he didn't, a female officer drew her own weapon and they forced him to the ground.

He was transported to Saint Francis Medical Center where he died several hours later.

Early Friday morning, the victim identified Preyer out of a photo line-up as both the man who raped her on Saturday and the man who broke into her house today.

Preyer's criminal history is speckled with home invasions and assaults, and he has been convicted of failing to inform the county of his change of address in compliance with registered sex offender laws. Swingle was getting ready to charge him with rape, attempted rape, burglary and attempted burglary this morning, armed with the positive eyewitness identification, when he learned around 9:30 a.m. that Preyer was dead.

Preyer was convicted in 1989 of raping and robbing a woman in New Madrid County and he served 15 years in prison on both charges.

He was also arrested last December and charged with attempted rape and second degree felony assault, but Swingle's office dismissed the charges because he did not think he could get a conviction, he said.

The victim in that case, a woman in her early 30s, allegedly went for a drive with Preyer, knowing of his sex offender status, and he attacked her while in the car.

After talking with the victim in that case, Swingle decided to dismiss the charges because the woman did not use a nearby phone to call for help, and because she went with Preyer because she was "bored," even though he was a sex offender, he said.

"We know in at least one case, he did a good job of picking his victim, this time, he didn't do such a good job," Swingle said.

Texas: Watauga homeowner stabbed, shot with own gun during robbery

Watuagua, Texas

From the Dallas Morning News of October 29, 2008
Watauga homeowner stabbed, shot with own gun during robbery

A Watauga homeowner was stabbed several times and shot once with his own gun during a robbery early this morning, police said.

The incident occurred in the 6000 block of Sundown Drive in Watauga about 10 miles northeast of Fort Worth.

According to Watauga police, a man heard someone trying to break into a trailer parked in his driveway around 3:30 a.m.

Armed with a shotgun, the man confronted the intruder who stabbed him several times. The gun went off during the scuffle, and the homeowner was shot in the arm.

A neighbor who came to the help the homeowner was also stabbed multiple times, police said.

The homeowner, who police did not identify, was taken to Harris Methodist Medical Center in critical condition. Police said the neighbor drove himself to the hospital.

Police have no suspects or a detailed description of the intruder.

Texas: Sledge Hammer Wielding Man Shot in Northwest Side Bar

San Antonio, Texas

From WOAI of October 31, 2008
Sledge Hammer Wielding Man Shot in Northwest Side Bar

A scary guy with a sledge hammer sounds like a Halloween prop, but it was the real deal this morning for a northwest side bar employee, 1200 WOAI's Michael Main reports.

A maintenance man at the I Don't Know Yet lounge in the 100 block of Babcock stationed himself in a back room at the bar, following a series of bar break-ins in the area around Babcock and Hillcrest.

About four this morning, the maintenance man heard glass breaking and a smashing sound. He emerged to find a man pounding the juke box with a sledge hammer.

When the maintenance man told the intruder to stop, he instead turned toward the maintenance man with the sledge hammer.

The maintenance man responded by firing four shots, and at least two of them struck the intruder, who stumbled to a waiting car and sped off. About fifteen minutes later, a man was dumped in the parking lot oft he emergency room of Northeast Baptist Hospital suffering from gunshot wounds. The car that delivered him sped away. The guy was airlifted to BAMC with life threatening wounds.

Police say they don't expect to file charges against the maintenance man.

The suspect is a suspect in at last four similar bar burglaries in which cash was taken from jukeboxes, including one earlier this morning.

Alabama: Two men shot in robbery attempt

Mobile, Alabama

From the Press-Register of October 31, 2008
Police: Two men shot in robbery attempt

A Mobile man shot at two would-be robbers, killing one of them, when "he was accosted" tonight in his driveway, a police spokesman said.

Sgt. Marcus Young said the injured man was taken by ambulance to the University of South Alabama Medical Center, while the other man was pronounced dead at the scene, at 1050 W. Belvedere Circle off Halls Mill Road.

A man living at the residence was pulling into his driveway when he was approached by the two men, one of whom had a handgun, Young said. The men demanded money from the resident, who retrieved a handgun and shot both robbers, Young said.

The man taken to the hospital was critically wounded, said Sgt. William Reed, who responded to the scene. He said it did not appear that the alleged robbers returned fire, and the shooter was not injured.

The incident occurred about 6:10 p.m. in the neighborhood just east of Hank Aaron Stadium.

"On the face of it, under Alabama law, you have a right to defend yourself and ... if the investigation reveals that is what happened here, then no charges would be brought," said Mobile County District Attorney John Tyson Jr. "But we have to be very careful and say this is still a preliminary investigation and more must be done before a decision is made."

Arkansas: LR Store Clerk Shoots Would-be Robber

Little Rock, Arkansas

From Arkansas Matters of October 30, 2008
LR Store Clerk Shoots Would-be Robber

A would-be robber was shot in the leg Thursday morning in Little Rock after a store clerk turned the tables on him.

The suspect walked into the Pic-Pac Liquor store at 12th & Peyton around 7:00.

After pulling a gun on the clerk, the clerk pulled his own weapon, fired at the man, then chased the suspect outside the store, and held him at gunpoint until police arrived.

Police say the store was "ready for a robbery," and that this was not the first time the store had been held up.

"We have recovered both weapons, the robber's weapon plus the owner's weapon and we'll continue the investigation. Any charges that may be filed, we'll put that up to the prosecutor's office once we get the file complete," said Lt. Terry Hastings, spokesman for the Little Rock Police Department.

"We don't recommend that anyone use violence against a person, but businesses do have that right, and he does have the right to defend himself. When this individual came into the store, pulled a gun, it's a robbery, he does have that right," Hastings said.

Police have not yet released the names of the clerk or the suspect as their investigation into the incident continues.

The suspect's gunshot wound is not believed to be life-threatening.

Texas: Arlington man who shot intruder was defending himself, police say

Arlington, Texas

From the Forth Worth Star-Telegram of October 29, 2008
Arlington man who shot intruder was defending himself, police say

The south Arlington resident who shot and killed one of two intruders in his home late Monday night was defending himself, according to police.

The resident, who was in an upstairs bedroom when the suspects barged into the house, met one of the intruders on the stairs when a shootout ensued, said Lt. Blake Miller, an Arlington police spokesman.

The intruder was killed instantly, police said. The second suspect fled during the shooting and is still at large.

"With the information we have now, it appears that the resident was justified in defending himself and his family," Miller said.

The identity of the dead suspect is being withheld pending family notification, Miller said. Neighbors who called 911 Monday night said that they heard up to eight or nine gunshots. Police also are withholding the identity of the residents because of fear of retaliation.

No one answered the door late Tuesday morning at the two-story brick home in the 900 block of Carthage Way.

According to police, three of the home occupants were outside the residence when two men wearing masks approached them with a gun about 10 p.m. Monday.

The men then forced the occupants inside the home and at some point, struck one of the victims in the head. One of the intruders shot several rounds into the floor of the home.

After hearing the gunfire, a fourth resident, who was in an upstairs bedroom, grabbed his gun and confronted the gunman on the stairs. The two exchanged fire and the intruder was killed, police said.

This is the second shooting this year at the home just south of Harold Patterson Sports Complex.

Last summer a bondsman looking for a cousin fired shots after someone at the home tried to run him over, Miller said. It was unclear whether Monday night’s shooting involved anyone who was involved in that incident. That case has been sent to Tarrant County district attorney’s office.

Meanwhile, police continued to search late Tuesday for the dead man’s accomplice. That suspect was last seen wearing bluejeans, purple gloves and a white sweater with crowns.

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Ohio: Pet Shop Owner Shoots, Kills Robbery Suspect

Cleveland, Ohio

From MyFoxCleveland of October 27, 2008
Pet Shop Owner Shoots, Kills Robbery Suspect

Cleveland Police believe a shop owner who shot a robbery suspect Monday acted in self-defense.

Police were called to the Cleveland Aviary on Bosworth Avenue in Cleveland (see Google map below ) Monday afternoon. According to Lt. Thomas Stacho, the suspect was dead on the front step of the pet shop when the first officers arrived.

According to police, the 86-year-old shop owner, whose name police did not release, was in the back room of the shop when the robber entered. Police said there was one clerk working in the front of the shop.

"The robber set upon him, immediately put a knife to his throat and ordered him to open the cash register," Stacho said.

Police said the shop owner came out the back room with a gun and asked the robber to leave.

"He ordered the robber to leave; the robber did not; he approached him in a menacing manner and the second man fired one round striking the man in the chest killing him," Stacho said.

The shop owner's daughter, Maria Oviero, said the shop had been the target of thieves before. She said her father got a gun after a couple of failed robbery attempts. She hoped he would never have to use the gun.

"It's sad that he has to use that kind of force. It's sad, but he had to do what he had to do. I'm just glad he is OK," Oviero said.

Police did not release the name of the suspect.

Sunday, October 26, 2008

Texas: Pawn shop clerk shoots, kills would-be robber

Harris County, Texas

From the Houston Chronicle of October 25, 2008
Pawn shop clerk shoots, kills would-be robber

A pawn shop clerk shot and fatally injured an armed man allegedly attempting to rob the northwest Harris County business Saturday evening, authorities said.

The gunman entered Gulf Coast Pawn and Jewelry store in the 9400 block of Louetta Road and attempted to rob the business at 5:56 p.m. when he was shot by one of the store clerks, authorities said.

He was taken to Willowbrook Methodist Hospital where he later died, authorities said.

Friday, October 24, 2008

Florida: Hillsborough teacher shoots and kills intruder

Tampa, Florida

From Tampa Bay 10 of October 24, 2008
Hillsborough teacher shoots and kills intruder

A Hillsborough County middle school teacher shot and killed a burglar who burst into her home Friday morning.

Sheriff's deputies say 62-year-old Juanita Enzor was in her bedroom around 5 a.m. when a man kicked in the front door. Detectives say when the man confronted Enzor, she grabbed her gun and fired, shooting the man in the chest.

The bleeding, injured suspect then started attacking Enzor, but she managed to escape and run from her home.

Deputies arrived at the scene on Kirkland Drive and found the suspect dead inside.

Enzor was slightly injured in the attack. She is a 6th grade teacher at Memorial Middle School in Tampa.

The suspect has been identified as 40-year-old Mark C. Johnson.

Thursday, October 23, 2008

Kentucky: Deer Hunter In Harlan County Shoots Bear

Harlan County, Kentucky

From WKYT of October 23, 2008
Deer Hunter In Harlan County Shoots Bear

A deer hunter in Harlan County fatally shot a black bear with his muzzleloader after the animal came too close to his hunting blind last Saturday morning.

Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Conservation Officer Shane Amburgey determined the hunter, 30-year-old Bobby Koger of Cumberland, acted in self-defense due to the proximity of the bear. “He said the bear came right to his blind and almost stuck his head inside when he shot it,” Amburgey said. “We found blood from the bear within a foot of the blind.”

A blind is a type of camouflaged tent used by hunters to conceal themselves from game.
No charges were filed in the case. Another hunter at the scene, 31-year-old James Forester of Cumberland, shot the bear a second time, in an attempt to protect his friend. Investigators found the dead 250-pound male black bear approximately 700-800 yards away. The incident occurred around 9 a.m. Oct. 18 on Black Mountain, located near Gap Branch in northeastern Harlan County.

Wildlife Biologist Steven Dobey, black bear program coordinator for the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, said bears rarely approach people in such a direct manner unless they smell food. Amburgey said Koger did not have food inside the blind with him.

“It is likely this bear was investigating the blind out of pure curiosity,” Dobey said.
Koger told investigators that he initially saw two bears in the clearing that he was hunting. Koger said one of the bears started trotting toward him when he started yelling at Forester, who was asleep at a gas well approximately 50 yards away, according to Koger’s statement.

Koger said he started yelling at the bear, but it did not stop coming. Koger told investigators he shot the bear from 3 feet away. Forester told Amburgey that the bear came back to its feet after the shot and tried to get inside the blind. Forester said he shot the bear and it ran away. The second bear did not approach the hunters.

“The fact that yelling did not deter the bear from approaching the blind suggests it likely did not recognize the concealed hunter as a person,” Dobey said. “Given the location of the incident, however, it is also possible this bear had lost its fear of people.”

(More)

North Carolina: Resident shot suspect during burglary

Fayetteville, North Carolina

From WRAL of October 23, 2008
Fayetteville police: Resident shot suspect during burglary

Fayetteville police said that a resident shot and wounded a suspect during a home break-in Thursday afternoon.

Two people forced their way into a residence in the 400 block of Acacia Circle around 2:30 p.m., officers said. The victim was at home and heard the burglars as they tried to take several items.

Investigators said that the resident confronted the burglars with a firearm. The resident shot one person in the lower leg and detained him until police arrived.

The second burglar fled the scene by unknown means, police said.

The suspect was transported to Cape Fear Valley Hospital to be treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

Police said they plan to charge him with felony breaking-and-entering and felony larceny. Investigators have not been able to determine the man's identity.

Detectives remained at the crime scene late Thursday afternoon.

Missouri: Police say Scott County burglary suspect stopped by armed homeowner

Benton, Missouri

From the Southeast Missourian of October 23, 2008
Police say Scott County burglary suspect stopped by armed homeowner

Scott County deputies arrested a 35-year-old Sikeston man Wednesday in connection with an attempted burglary, according to a Scott County Sheriff's Department news release.

Jason Roach allegedly approached a residence on County Highway 538 on Tuesday and rang the doorbell. Police say Roach turned the doorknob and would have gained entry, according to the homeowner, were it not for the safety latch on the door.

Roach entered the home through a rear garage entrance where he was greeted by the homeowner, who held a handgun, according to the news release.

Roach allegedly told the homeowner he was lost and asked for directions.

Roach had recently been charged with another burglary and was currently out on bond. He is currently held at Scott County Jail on $5,000 cash-only bond.

Florida: No Charges In Bingo Shooting

Pensacola, Florida

From the WKRG of October 23, 2008
No Charges In Bingo Shooting

No charges will likely be filed against the manager of a Pensacola bingo hall who took the law into his own hands.

Escambia County Sheriff's deputies say Chad England shot and killed an armed robber who stormed into Beachside Bingo on Jackson Street in Pensacola.

Investigators say Alton Prewitt, 20, entered the bingo hall around 10pm Wednesday. According to witnesses, Prewitt demanded money and fired at least one shot in the ceiling before England grabbed his own gun and fired back.

Prewitt was pronounced dead on the scene. No one else in the bingo hall was hurt.

"It looks like a clear case of self defense," says Glenn Austin, spokesperson for the Escambia County Sheriff's Office. Austin says he believes England was within his rights to shoot the suspect. "He was defending himself and everyone else in the parlor," he says.

Florida has a law that allows residents to protect themselves when they are attacked. The state's "Stand Your Ground Law" makes it legal to use deadly force against an intruder.

Texas: Pizza Delivery Man Shoots, Fends Off Would-Be Robbers

Lufkin, Texas

From Fox News of October 23, 2008
Pizza Delivery Man Shoots, Fends Off Would-Be Robbers

A pizza delivery man who was taking an order to a house in East Texas pulled out a gun and opened fire on two would-be robbers, police said.

One of the alleged robbers was hospitalized after getting shot in the back, Lufkin police said. The Papa John's pizza delivery man, who's licensed to carry a handgun, wasn't hurt.

The shooting was Tuesday night, after the delivery man walked up to a house and rang a doorbell, Lufkin police said. It turned out the house was vacant and two armed men approached him from the side of the house, The Lufkin Daily News reported Thursday. The delivery man drew a .22 caliber Derringer and fired two shots, and the assailants ran away, police said.

It appears unlikely the delivery man will face any charges since he "was defending himself at the time of the shooting," Lufkin Police Lt. David Young said.

A call placed to the restaurant and a call to the chain's corporate headquarters in Louisville, Ky., weren't immediately returned Thursday.

Police said Johnx R. Greer, 18, was arrested at a hospital where he was treated for a gunshot wound to the back. He's been charged with aggravated robbery and was being held in the Angelina County Jail on a $100,000 bond. His attorney, John Tunnell, did not return a call Thursday.

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Wyoming: Man shoots mountain lion in self defense

Cokeville, Wyoming

From Local 8 News of October 20, 2008
Man shoots mountain lion in self defense

An Afton hunter killed a mountain lion earlier this month while hunting deer with his father in western Wyoming.

The state Game and Fish Department determined the killing was self defense.

Adam Lancaster told Warden Todd Graham that he killed the mountain lion on Oct. 7 as it approached the hunters while they were field dressing and boning a buck mule deer they had killed.

The encounter occurred in the north end of Wyoming lion hunt Area 14 in the Coal Creek drainage, about four miles south of U.S. 89 on Salt Pass. No one was injured.

They reported the incident immediately.

Kansas: Homeowner thwarts home robbery attempt

Wichita, Kansas

From the Wichita Eagle of October 21, 2008
Homeowner thwarts home robbery attempt

Wichita police are looking for three suspects involved in an attempted residential robbery early Monday morning.

A 54-year-old man said a man kicked open the front door of his house in the 2000 block of South Madison at about 12:40 a.m. Monday and pointed a gun at him and his 21-year-old daughter.

The man told police he grabbed the gun and forced the suspect to the front lawn, where he saw two others.

One of the other suspects fired a shotgun at the victim, and the suspects ran north from the yard. As the suspects drove away from the area, the victim said, one of them fired a handgun at the house.

No injuries were reported.

Sunday, October 19, 2008

Indiana: Victim, intruder shot in home invasion

Indianapolis, Indiana

From the Indy Star of October 18, 2008
Victim, intruder shot in home invasion

An apparent home invasion left both the Near-Eastside resident as well as the alleged intruder hospitalized with gunshot wounds, police said today.

Jason Kennedy, 25, was listed in serious but stable condition at Wishard Memorial Hospital with a gunshot wound to the head.

Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department investigators said that after being shot, Kennedy fired back at his alleged attacker, Thomas King, 29, of McCordsville. King was listed in critical condition at Wishard.

According to an IMPD news release, Kennedy and a group of friends had been sitting on a porch in the 200 block of North Eastern Avenue early today when they were approached by King and another man, and began arguing with them.

Police said the men returned to the residence about 5:50 a.m. and robbed Kennedy and one of his companions at gunpoint.

According to the news release, "it appears that King, while robbing the two individuals, pointed his gun at Kennedy and shot him in the head. Kennedy then pulled out his gun and returned fire, hitting King.''

Police found both King and Kennedy outside the residence. Investigators said they were still seeking King's alleged accomplice in the incident.

Friday, October 17, 2008

Bad Husband Shot in Shreveport

Shreveport, Louisiana

From the October 15, 2008 Shreveport Times:

James Stanley was shot in the abdomen by a homeowner in the 4400 block of Kent Road where Stanley's wife had gone to seek refuge after a domestic argument, according to Caddo deputies

Stanley and his wife got into an argument at a local business just after midnight. The womanleft in Stanley's truck, and he followed her in another vehicle.

Before arriving at their house, Stanley began ramming the truck from behind several times. His wife stopped a few blocks from home, and ran to the residence of friends for help, deputies said.

Stanley began banging on the door and was told to leave, which he did, but he soon returned. The homeowner warned Stanley he had a gun and ordered him to leave. Stanley continued to bang on the door and broke a window.

The homeowner then fired a shot through the door with a 12-gauge shotgun, striking Stanley in the stomach. He was taken to LSU Hospital in Shreveport where he underwent surgery.

Deputies say Stanley was the aggressor in the incident, and he has been charged with aggravated assault, disturbing the peace, and simple property damage. The homeowner has not been charged, but the case is still under investigation and will be forwarded to the District Attorney's Office for review.

Marion County, Florida Home Invader Shot With Own Gun

Marion County, Florida

From October 15, 2008 Orlando channel 6:
A homeowner apparently wrestled a gun away from a home invader Wednesday afternoon and shot the man, Marion County sheriff's deputies said.

Three males kicked in the door of a home on Pine Run Terrace in Marion County around 1:15 p.m. and beat two residents at gunpoint, deputies said.

The homeowner somehow retrieved the assailant's gun and shot him, according to the Marion County Sheriff's Office.

The culprits, including the one who was shot, then fled the home, deputies said.A short time later, a 19-year-old man identified as Latwain McLaren was dropped off at Munroe Regional Medical Center suffering from a gunshot wound, deputies said. He underwent surgery in critical condition, according to the sheriff's office.

Tifton, Georgia Home Intruder Shot Four Times In Head

Tifton, Georgia

From October 15, 2008 WXFL channel 31:

Tift County authorities say a homeowner shot a man after he attempted to force his way into a rural mobile home
off Highway 125.

Sheriff's department spokesman David Haire says the homeowner, 33-year-old John Henry Howard Jr., was not hurt during the home invasion. It happened early Wednesday at about 2:30 a.m. Haire did not identify the suspected burglar, but said his injuries appeared to be serious. The intruder was shot 4 times in the head.


Oklahoma: Tulsa Homeowner Shoots Man Trying To Break Into House

Tulsa, Oklahoma

From Fox23 of October 17, 2008
Tulsa Homeowner Shoots Man Trying To Break Into House

A Tulsa homeowner shoots a man police say was causing all sorts of problems near 34th & Riverside.

Shortly before midnight, police were called to Riverside Drive because a man was seen screaming and shouting at cars driving by.

About 10 minutes later, police received another call from a homeowner about the man trying to break into his house.

The homeowner was on the phone with a 911 operator and told police he had a gun. He left the phone off the hook and the operator heard several shots fired.

The homeowner told police the man had to break into his home and was shouting threats at him.

That’s when he grabbed his gun and opened fire, hitting the man in the right leg.

"When officers arrived, they found him in the flower bed at the front of the house and he still had enough energy to fight and resist officers. It took a few officers to get him into custody, but he was eventually placed in handcuffs,” says Captain Richard Alexander.

The man was taken to St. John Medical center with non-life threatening injuries. Police say the man was still very drunk. The man could possibly face charges of first-degree burglary and maybe charges on the other houses that he tried to break into. Police say it also look like he tried to vandalize a car.

Police say because the homeowner was in fear for his life he could be protected under the “Make My Day” law against unlawful intrusion.

California: Rancho Cordova resident shoots would-be burglar

Rancho Cordova

From the Sacramento Bee of October 15, 2008
Rancho Cordova resident shoots would-be burglar

Not my house, said one Rancho Cordova resident.

When he heard someone trying to kick in his front door just after 11 a.m. today, the 26-year-old resident of a Vehicle Drive apartment grabbed a gun and shot the suspect, according to authorities. Then he held the suspect at gunpoint until police arrived.

The suspect was transported to a local hospital and is expected to survive, said Sacramento County sheriff's spokesman Sgt. Tim Curran, who also serves as spokesman for the Rancho Cordova Police Department. After he was treated, he is likely to be arrested on suspicion of home invasion robbery, Curran said.

Police were called to the 2300 block by the resident's mother. She had been on the phone with her son when he suddenly yelled that somebody was trying to break into his apartment and hung up, Curran said.

At the scene, officers found evidence that someone had been trying to force entry into the apartment, Curran said. They also found a handgun - other than the resident's - that they believe was carried by the attempted burglar, Curran said.

He said the resident and suspect did not know each other, and it's unknown why that apartment was targeted. Officers found no evidence of illegal activity, like drugs, in the apartment, Curran said.

He did not know whether either gun was legally registered.

Notes CBS13: "A Sheriff's spokesman says at this point the homeowner will not face charges for defending himself and his wife."

Texas: Man fatally shoots would-be robber, police say

Fort Worth, Texas

From the Star-Telegram of October 17, 2008
Man fatally shoots would-be robber, police say

Two men with shotguns tried to rob a man late Thursday in southeast Fort Worth, but the would-be victim pulled his own gun, killing one, police said.

Anthony Wilson, 27, of Arlington died at about 10 p.m. at Huguley Hospital, according to the Tarrant County medical examiner's office.

Wilson went to the hospital after the shooting, which happened an hour earlier outside a home in the 3800 block of Radford Road, according to reports. The neighborhood is southwest of the intersection of East Berry Street and East Loop 820.

Police responding to a report of shots fired at the address met with the 35-year-old resident, who said he was in his pickup outside the home when he was approached by two men toting shotguns.

The man was "forced to lie down in the street while the suspects contemplated what to do next," said Lt. Paul Henderson, police spokesman.

"One of the men," Henderson said, "decided to force (the resident) back inside his residence and told him to get up. As (he) began to stand up he retrieved a handgun that was concealed in his pants and began slinging lead at the two would-be robbers.

"One suspect was hit multiple times and immediately collapsed in the street."

The other man ran southbound from the location, Henderson said.

"A car drove by," he added, "and picked up the collapsed suspect and left the area."

Meanwhile, the hospital staff at Huguley called police to report that a man had just arrived with multiple gunshot wounds, but the man, later identified as Wilson, could not be saved, Henderson said.

Later, a 26-year-old man was brought to the hospital by a family member "to talk to police about his involvement with the shooting," Henderson said.

That man was not wounded, but he was questioned at police headquarters and subsequently arrested for an outstanding aggravated assault warrant out of Arlington, Henderson said.

"His involvement in the shooting is still not clear," Henderson said. "It is unknown if there are any others involved. The investigation is ongoing."

The man who shot the robbers was not charged with anything Thursday night, Henderson said.

He noted, however, the Tarrant County District Attorney's Office can consider whether to refer the man's case to a grand jury, which is routine.

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Texas: Robbery victim wounds assailant

San Antonio, Texas

From My San Antonio of October 15, 2008
Robbery victim wounds assailant

A man shot by a robber at a Northeast Side apartment complex wounded the gunman after he dropped his gun during their struggle, police said.

The incident happened about 9:30 a.m. in the 4600 block of Thousand Oaks Drive at The Crest of Thousand Oaks apartments.

Police Chief William McManus said the gunman was wearing a ski mask when he approached the victim, later identified as Terry Hoover.

“They struggled over the weapon,” McManus said at the scene. “The complainant was shot in the thigh.” The victim managed to get the gun, however, and he shot the robber in the torso.

The men were rushed to a hospital in separate ambulances. The suspect, Troy Curtis, 40, is charged with aggravated robbery with bodily injury. He was being held in Bexar County Jail on $50,000 bond.

Arizona: Evidence at UA-area double-shooting consistent with self defense

Tuscon, Arizona

From the Arizona Daily Star of October 16, 2008
Tucson police: Evidence at UA-area double-shooting consistent with self defense

Evidence in a fatal shooting of two home invaders by a University of Arizona student appears to be consistent with his story that he was defending himself, police said.

At least one of the invaders was armed with a gun during the incident, which occurred shortly after 12:30 a.m., according to Sgt. Fabian Pacheco, a Tucson Police Department spokesman.

The 23-year-old student was home alone in the 800 block of East Adams Street — near North Euclid Avenue and East Speedway — when the home invasion occurred.

There was a knock at the door, at which time he armed himself with a gun because of the late hour, Pacheco said.

The man at the door asked for someone and the student told him that the person did not live there, Pacheco said.

The student looked past the man he was speaking with and saw another man who had his face covered and was armed with a gun.

He attempted to retreat into his home but the men made their way in, Pacheco said.

The student called police to report the shooting and when officers arrived at the guest house they found the two men dead inside just past the doorway.

Their names and exact ages were not released, but one was in his mid to late 20s and the other was about 25 years old, Pacheco said.

The UA student was questioned and is cooperating with police, Pacheco said. His name is not being released.

There is no indication that the student is or has been involved in any criminal activity, police said.

Pacheco could not say what the men were looking for or if they had possibly gone to the wrong house.

The case will be presented to the Pima County Attorney’s Office for a determination on whether the double homicide was justified, Pacheco said.

Ali Adelmann, a UA sophomore, just moved into the neighborhood this semester and was concerned about what happened.

“It really worries me,” the Phoenix resident said. “All we can do is keep our doors and windows locked.”

Jenny Wise also moved into the neighborhood in August. The 19-year-old sophomore said she wasn’t home at the time.

She had gone to a party and upon arriving home around 2 a.m. found her street taped off and flooded with police.

“It’s really the scariest thing,” Wise said. “I’ve lived a sheltered life. This seems like a nice little neighborhood. I don’t know what I would’ve done if two guys tried to get into my house.”

Texas: Man shot in Dallas after breaking into home, police say

Dallas, Texas

From the Star-Telegram of October 16, 2008
Man shot in Dallas after breaking into home, police say

Police believe a 21-year-old man entered a Dallas condominium early Thursday to steal a flat screen TV, but he was shot to death instead, police said.

Gary Williams was taken to Baylor Medical Center following the shooting about 2 a.m. at the condo in the 6100 block of Tremont Street, southwest of Lakewood Country Club, aid Sgt. Ray Beaudreault, a homicide detective.

Williams was pronounced dead on arrival, having been shot multiple times by the homeowner who was armed with a 9mm handgun, Beaudreault said.

The resident told police that he was sleeping, but his wife heard something downstairs. She awoke her husband who got his handgun and went to investigate.

He told officers that he confronted a man, later identified as Williams, who, he said, was removing the TV from the wall, Beaudreault said.

The robber "came at him," Beaudreault said, so he opened fire.

"He fell down a brief time, then got up and jumped through the window that he came in from," the detective said of Williams. "He landed spread-eagle on the front porch and he was lifeless."

Beaudreault said the case will be referred to the Dallas County District Attorney's Office, and prosecutors will show the information to a grand jury.

Beaudreault called that procedure routine. He indicated the man probably won't be indicted by the grand jury.

"They usually no-bill these cases and there is no reason this case would be any different," Beaudreault said. "He was in his house. He was protecting his property and his life."

California: Man shoots dog while under attack

Oildale, California

From Bakersfield Now of October 9, 2008
Man shoots dog while under attack

A man who shot a dog Thursday in Oildale was under attack at the time, according to the Kern County Sheriff's Office.

Elmer Walker, 72, was walking on the 700 block of the north alley of Woodrow Avenue when two pit bulls pushed open a gate where they lived and attacked the man, sheriff's officials said.

Walker hit one of the dogs with a stick and shot the other dog with a .22 revolver he's permitted to carry, causing the dogs the retreat to their home.

Walker wasn't hurt, and the condition of the dog who was shot in the jaw was unknown.

The dog's owner, Arnold Coon II, said he feels the dog's were provoked, and he said the dogs don't have a history of violent behavior.

Kern County Animal Control Services Department took custody of the dogs and is conducting an investigation.

Texas: S.E. Side homeowner kills intruder

San Antonio, Texas

From My San Antonio of October 16, 2008
S.E. Side homeowner kills intruder

A Southeast Side homeowner shot and killed a man early Thursday morning who was trying to break into his bedroom window.

The man, believed to be in his 20s, was trying to get into a rear bedroom window of a house in the 1400 block of Greer and when the homeowner shot him, police said.

The homeowner, a firearms instructor, was home alone and in the bedroom the burglar was attempting to enter.

The homeowner, who teaches people how to shoot weapons, told police he awoke just after 3 a.m. to a see a man trying to climb in his bedroom window.

Police say the homeowner got a handgun and fired at least three times. No charges are expected to be filed against the homeowner.

Investigators are trying to determine if the dead man was linked to a nearby burglary 15 minutes before he was shot at the house on Greer.

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Texas: Robber shot by victim in South Austin

Austin, Texas

From KXAN of October 15, 2008
Robber shot by victim in South Austin

A party at an apartment on Oltorf Street in South Austin turned into a crime scene over the weekend.

Police got the call around 2:30 a.m. on Oct.11. The 911 caller said that "there was trouble." According to police reports, 26-year-old John Crayton robbed a number of party goers and ended up getting himself shot in the stomach.

"They heard a gunshot from inside the closet, and they wondered where the gunshot came from," said Sgt. Brian Miller with the Austin Police Department. "They opened up the closet, and Mr. Crayton jumped out. He proceeded to rob everybody inside the apartment."

There were seven people in the front part of the apartment. Police said Crayton pointed his gun at those in the room and even hit several of his victims with the weapon. All he got was a pack of Marlboro Light cigarettes and $3 from one victim.

Crayton apparently planned to exit out of back of the apartment and kicked in the door to a bedroom. Police said there were two other victims in that room, and one had a gun.

"I don't think he anticipated that," Miller said. "I don't think he anticipated anyone being there."

The victim in that room took aim and shot Crayton in the stomach.

"It was registered, he owns it and by Texas law, you have the right to defend your property and yourself," Miller said.

Crayton ran out the apartment and to his apartment, less than a mile away. An hour later, Crayton called police and reported that he had been a victim of a robbery. When police arrived, Crayton told them he had been shot in the stomach in this parking lot, which was located right outside his apartment.

Officers realized Crayton fit the description of the man who robbed those in a nearby apartment. Crayton was taken to the hospital and later arrested for robbery with a deadly weapon. The victim who shot him won't be charged.

Tennessee: Police report: Homeowner kills break-in suspect

Raleigh, Tennessee

From the Commercial Appeal of October 15, 2008
Police report: Homeowner kills break-in suspect

A 58-year-old homeowner shot a robbery suspect to death early Tuesday after a struggle at a home in Raleigh.

The man caught the 20-year-old intruder trying to come inside his home at 3161 Scenic Highway through a patio door at 12:25 a.m, police said.

He fought the man and is believed to have been struck several times with a pistol before he shot the intruder, who died at the scene.

The resident was treated for injuries he suffered during the struggle. He has been released from the hospital.

No charges have been filed pending a full investigation.

Saturday, October 11, 2008

Buffalo Pizza Deliveryman Shoots at Armed Robbers

Buffalo, New York

From the October 11, 2008 Buffalo News:

A pizza deliveryman fought off three robbers at gunpoint and shot one of them in the back Thursday night, police say.

The deliveryman, who works for Tomatoes Pizza on Kensington Avenue, walked up to the house in the 400 block of Dartmouth Avenue and was confronted by the three would-be robbers, police said. At least one of the bandits had a gun.

The deliveryman, whose name has not been released, works for the same pizza shop where another deliveryman was fatally wounded during a robbery on New Years Eve 16 years ago.

No charges have been filed in the overnight shooting and attempted robbery, as detectives continue to investigate.

Buffalo police say the deliveryman was not injured.

"He has a permit for the gun, and he apparently used it lawfully to defend himself," Buffalo police spokesman Michael J. DeGeorge said at mid-morning.

Police also have not identified the 15-year-old male who was shot once in the back during Thursday night's robbery attempt.

Following the shooting, which occurred at about 9:45 p.m., the three attempted robbers fled to nearby Shirley Avenue, where at least one of them apparently lives. The wounded teen was taken from there to Erie County Medical Center, where police said he's in stable condition.

Friday, October 10, 2008

Wisconsin: 8th Grader stops invader with BB gun

Madison, Wisconsin

From WKOW of October 10, 2008
8th Grader stops invader with BB gun

13 year old Jack Theisen had to make a quick decision when two would-be robbers were in the process of coming through an unlocked, basement door, and Theisen was home alone.

Theisen grabbed his Red Ryder model BB gun and shot the first invader in the shoulder, scaring off both men.

"He's resilient," Jack Theisen's father, Mike Theisen told 27 News.

Mike Theisen said his son, an eighth grade student at St. James Catholic School, has taken a hunter safety course and is proficient and safe with guns.

Theisen said his son spotted the two men as they cased the front of the house on Sherman Avenue, perhaps believing the house was empty since most of the lights were out around 8 p.m. Oct. 9. Theisen said Jack Theisen then watched the men make their way to the home's side entrance.

Theisen said he rushed home from his nearby restaurant after his son called and told him of the emergency.

"I did have a conversation with him that calling 911 would have been the more appropriate thing to do than be a hero," Theisen told 27 News. "But he's just that kind of a kid. He's responsible and wise for his age."

Theisen said Jack Theisen's contingency plan was to run from the men and on to the home's second story roof through a secluded door.

Police officials said they are looking for the two home invasion suspects, who they describe as white men around eighteen years old, with one of the men about 6'0'' and 200 pounds.

Theisen said another home invasion in his lakeside neighborhood took place in the spring. Theisen said his family had not rehearsed a plan of action in the event of a burglary or robbery attempt at their home.

Theisen said while he has mixed emotions over his son confronting intruders, he said he is proud of him. "He's got guts."

Thursday, October 9, 2008

Texas: Kilgore homeowner fights off armed invader

Kilgore, Texas

From KLTV of October 7, 2008
Kilgore homeowner fights off armed invader

A would-be robber invaded an East Texas home while the homeowner fights to keep him and his son alive.

The home invasion happened in the 4500 block of FM 2204, east of Kilgore, around 7:00 this morning. Gregg County officials say an armed man entered the home in search of money, but left empty handed. Tuesday afternoon, the homeowner showed KLTV 7 LaKecia Shockley step by step how he survived his home invasion.

"I slammed him into this wall here and I think that's when we fell on the floor. I wasn't going to let go of him. I had him...I wasn't going to let go of his gun hand."

Mark Dickey is a brave and lucky man.

Mark says he was in his living room when a man armed with a nine millimeter gun walked through his front door with a demand.

"The door comes open, I see a silver plated gun and a guy behind it with a blue bandanna on...so I was just in shock," Dickey told us Tuesday.

"He says, 'Where do you keep your money?' And I said well, we don't keep any money in the house and he says well where's your wallet...at that point I thought if I turned here and gave him my wallet he's going to shoot me for sure. He'd already told me he would."

Mark told the robber his wallet was in the bedroom. That's when he decided to act.

"I bought myself a little time and walked into my bedroom and came back and I got close enough to him in my front room where I could grab him," said Mark.

"I grabbed his gun hand and we started tussling and we came this way towards my kitchen...we came this way and he was hitting me and I was hitting him and I pushed him into my wife's mirror right there."

Mark says thanks to his second degree black belt in karate, he was able to get a hold on the gun.

"I had his wrist and he was trying to get that gun pointed down to where he could shoot me but he couldn't get it down because I had his wrist locked," described Mark. "He fired a shot and as you can tell we looked for it and the police finally found it right here out my kitchen window."

During the struggle, Mark's 14 year old son was hiding in a closet. Mark yelled for his help, hoping it would scare off the intruder.

"I called for my son to get my gun and I think that he knew that somebody else was in here so he left," said Mark.

"The only thing that was going through my mind was my son's safety, you know. None of us know how we would react with a gun pointed at us so that was my first time, but I can tell you I wouldn't relish the thought of that happening again. I can tell you that," said Mark.

Deputies are looking for a black male believed to be in his late teens to early twenties. He was last seen wearing a blue bandana, dark shirt, and blue jeans. If you have any information, call the Gregg County Sherrif's department.

Kentucky: Woman Shoots, Kills Ex-Boyfriend, Claims Self-Defense

Cecilia, Kentucky

From WLKY of September 30, 2008
Woman Shoots, Kills Ex-Boyfriend, Claims Self-Defense

A Hardin County woman shot and killed her ex-boyfriend Monday, but no charges have been filed because the shooter is claiming self-defense.

Kentucky State Police say there's still the possibility an arrest will come.

"She called and reported that this shooting had occurred and she was protecting herself, and we went down there," said Kentucky State Trooper Steve Pavey.

Pavey said it happened at a home where Angie Ricketts, the alleged shooter, lives with her husband and children.

Pavey said Ricketts called police right after she pulled the trigger, killing her ex-boyfriend, 37-year-old Eric West.

"He showed up unwanted yesterday and that he allegedly assaulted her and that's what led to all this," Pavey said.

West, of Magnolia, Ky., was pronounced dead at the scene. Detectives said Ricketts claims this isn't the first time her ex has caused problems.

"She is telling investigators that he is the father of a couple of her children and that he has made threats towards her and her family in the past," Pavey said.

Police said they are still trying to determine exactly what unfolded inside the home, and Ricketts' fate will likely be decided by a grand jury.

"We just want to do a thorough investigation from both sides and just present just the facts," Pavey said.

Pavey said Ricketts will remain out of jail for now, because she insists she exercised a right all Kentuckians have.

"You have the right as a property owner to protect yourself, and under the new law that was passed by the legislature about two years ago, it gives even a little more, with protecting yourself and family and property with deadly force," he said.

Pavey said it could take several months before the case is handed over to the commonwealth's attorney's office and then presented to a grand jury.

Florida: Florida Man Shot Entering Home Mistaken as His Own

Orlando, Florida

From Fox News of October 9, 2008
Florida Man Shot Entering Home Mistaken as His Own

A 24-year-old Orlando man was shot twice after accidentally entering a neighbor's home, thinking it was his own.

The Orange County Sheriff's Office said James Conway was in stable condition Thursday. Deputies were called to a suspected burglary and found Conway moaning on the floor, saying he'd been shot in his own town house.

Investigators said 61-year-old Berty DeGuzman admitted firing at Conway. He said he thought he was being robbed.

Conway was alert, but allegedly told investigators he had been drinking.

Deputies did not immediately recommend charges against either man. In Florida, it is legal to use deadly force if a person feels they are being threatened by an intruder or attacker.

Illinois: Crest Hill man shoots, kills intruder

Crest Hill, Illinois

From WLS-TV of October 9, 2008
Crest Hill man shoots, kills intruder

An intruder was shot and killed while breaking into a home in the far southwest suburbs.

It happened around 6 p.m. Wednesday night in Crest Hill on Pioneer Road. A 68-year-old man was in his apartment watching television when the intruder broke the bedroom window.

Police say he picked up a .38 revolver and fatally shot the intruder, identified as 34-year-old Demtrious Grove.

It is unclear whether any charges will be filed against the resident.

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

South Carolina: Police: Employees Disarm, Hold Would-Be Robber

Spartenburg, South Carolina

From WYFF of October 8, 2008
Police: Employees Disarm, Hold Would-Be Robber

Officers were called to a drive-in restaurant Tuesday night where employees disarmed and restrained a robbery suspect.

Employees at Boots and Sonny’s Drive-in on East Henry Street said that an armed man had come into the business through an unsecured rear service door at about 9 p.m.

They said that the man pointed a silver handgun at employees and demanded money from the safe.

The employees scuffled with the man and disarmed him. They restrained him in the kitchen until officers arrived.

Officers arrested 21-year-old Alvin Dean Edwards of Spartanburg. He was taken into custody without further incident.

Ohio: Man kills would-be robber on North Side

Columbus, Ohio

From the Columbus Dispatch of October 7, 2008
Man kills would-be robber on North Side

A Columbus man was killed this evening when, witnesses told police, he tried to rob a couple in a North Side parking lot.

Thomas E. Goldsmith Jr., 27, was pronounced dead at the scene around 5 p.m. Franklin County records had addresses for him on Roche Drive and Linden Avenue on the North Side.

Witnesses told police that Goldsmith approached a couple in their car at Kenmore Square Apartments holding a gun and demanded money from the man at the steering wheel, witnesses said. Goldsmith's gun misfired and the man in the car, identified as Deandre R. Henry, began shooting his own gun.

Henry, 24, of 3490 Derrer Field Drive on the Hilltop, called 911 from his cell phone and told them he had shot someone. Witnesses said he told police, "I shot this dude because he tried to rob me. What was I supposed to do? My girlfriend's pregnant." He emptied his gun of bullets and stayed in the parking lot until police arrived, witnesses said.

Columbus assault squad Sgt. Christ Holzhauser said several guns were recovered at the scene, and that Henry is cooperating with the investigation.

Holzhauser said self-defense "is definitely a possibility.

"If it ends up being a self-defense thing, it was very smart on his part to stay on the scene," Holzhauser said.

Police were not issuing chargs pending a county grand jury investigation.

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

Michigan: Police: Dad shot son dead during home invasion

Battle Creek, Michigan

From the Lansing State Journal of October 1, 2008
Police: Dad shot son dead during home invasion

A Battle Creek man who allegedly shot and killed his stepson Monday night has been released from custody as the police investigation continues.

Gary Prado, 49, was questioned and then released after Battle Creek police said he shot James L. Keck, 30, of Scotts.

Detectives said it appears Keck broke into the house at 51 S. Mason St. and was shot as he was attempting to force his way into a bedroom where Prado, Darlene Prado, 48 - his wife and Keck's mother - and Gary Prado's 11-year-old daughter had taken refuge.

An autopsy Tuesday showed Keck was shot four times, including once in the center of the chest, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. Police reported the shooting at 6:57 p.m.

**Update November 1, 2008**
From the Battle Creek Inquirer of October 31, 2008
'Man was shot in self-defense'

The Battle Creek man who shot his stepson in September killed him in self-defense, Calhoun County's prosecutor ruled.

In a letter Thursday to the Battle Creek Police Department, Prosecutor John Hallacy said charges won't be brought against Gary Prado, 49, in the shooting of James L. Keck.

"I am glad I am cleared of the charges because I didn't have any wrong doing," Prado said Thursday. "He said he was going to kill all of us and that is when I went into defense mode. I had to protect my family."

Battle Creek police said Keck was shot and killed inside Prado's Urbandale home just before 7 p.m. on Sept. 29.

The investigation showed Keck had threatened Prado and his wife (Keck's mother) and had broken into the house and was trying to force his way into the bedroom where Prado, his wife and his 11-year-old daughter had taken refuge.

"(Prado) and his wife requested that Mr. Keck not come to the residence," Hallacy wrote, "they locked the residence, they contacted 911, they retreated to a bedroom in the home, they closed the door to the bedroom and placed a dresser in front of the door, Mr. Prado warned Mr. Keck he was armed and finally Mr. Prado fired a warning shot before the fatal shots were discharged.

"Law provides protection to those who act to defend themselves and others who may be in danger," Hallacy concluded. "Based upon the facts and the law it is clear that Mr. Prado's actions were provided the protection of the law, in that he acted in self-defense when he shot and killed Mr. Keck."

Prado said Thursday he believes Keck had been drinking or smoking marijuana and was after him but Keck also had made threats against his mother.

"I heard the word kill and you go into protection mode to protect your family," Prado said.

"I couldn't take the chance," Prado said. "I took a vow to protect her and being her husband I took the vows very sacredly and unfortunately I could not let him get the chance to hurt her. Something snapped in him that night and I couldn't take the chance of him hurting my wife."

Prado said the shooting continues to haunt him.

"I loved my son, he had a lot of good points and a lot of bad points. I have nightmares and wake up in the middle of the night. I have a 24-7 reminder of what I did. I have a constant reminder of what has happened to me."

Pennsylvania: Two shot in home invasion

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

From WPVI of September 28, 2008
Two shot in home invasion

Philadelphia police are investigating a home invasion that ended with a double shooting.

Police sources tell Action News the two shot were the teenagers committing the home invasion.

Those sources say it all happened around 4:30 a.m. when a 19 year old man and a 15 year old boy broke into the front door of a home in the 1700 block of Pierce Street.

Police say a resident inside the home pulled out a gun and began firing at the two teenagers, striking them both.

The 19 year old male was shot in the abdomen and is in critical condition at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania.

The 15 year old male teenager is in stable condition at HUP.

No word yet on any charges as police investigate.

Alabama: Dothan pizza delivery man fends off robber with gunfire

Dothan, Alabama

From Dothan Eagle of October 6, 2008
Dothan pizza delivery man fends off robber with gunfire

Victor Greenwood said he plans to take a week off work after a man attacked him with a brick as he tried to deliver a pizza.

Greenwood, 32, said although the incident left him traumatized, he managed to escape with only minor injuries. He said he suffered a cut on the shoulder and was left a little sore. Moments after the assault dropped the pizza and hot wings, and opened fire with his pistol.

“As soon as I got back down the stairs, one of them hit me in the head with a brick,” Greenwood said. “A few seconds later, he was charging me. I dropped the food and grabbed my pistol.”

Dothan police Capt. Larry Draughon said Khiry Terrel Beachum, 18, of East Lafayette Street, suffered a gunshot wound to the leg during the robbery, and was caught shortly afterward by police. Police are still looking for Michael Pope, who they say ran after gunfire erupted. Police said the robbery happened about 10 p.m. Sunday in the 400 block of East Crawford Street. Police said Beachum was treated and released from Southeast Alabama Medical Center for an injury to lower right leg.

Both men were charged with first-degree armed robbery.

Greenwood said he’s worked for Hungry Howie’s Pizza for five years and had never been robbed until Sunday night. But he said the two men didn’t get a chance to steal anything.

“It was either me or him,” Greenwood said. “If they’d got me on the ground, it would’ve been over.”

Greenwood said he saw the two men sitting on the steps of what he believed to be a bogus address. After he found no answer at the door, he walked toward his car when he was attacked with the brick.

“I just felt like my life was in danger because I knew there was two of them and they had bricks,” Greenwood said. “I just feel sorry for the kid, but they’re going to have to learn not endanger somebody’s life.”

Alan Hodges, general manager of Hungry Howie’s Pizza, said he had another delivery person robbed earlier this year on Cougar Drive. Hogdes added Crawford Street to a list of streets across the city that the business will not deliver food after 5 p.m. for what Hodges called safety concerns.

“I’m glad he’s all right,” Hodges said, who was a delivery man before he became manager. “He’s a hero to a lot of delivery people. They risk their lives to deliver their food.”

Madison Home Invader Flees When Shot At

Madison, Wisconsin

From the October 1, 2008 Madison Capital Times:
Madison man shot at an armed intruder to his residence Tuesday morning but missed in what police said was not a random home invasion.

Madison police said the incident happened about 10:53 a.m. at a residence in the 1800 block of Browning Road on the city's northeast side.

Two residents at home, a man and a woman in their 20s, said the suspect, a male in his 20s, was carrying a handgun and forced his way in through a door.

"The male victim grabbed a rifle, prompting the perpetrator to flee," said police spokesman Joel DeSpain. "The resident shot at him but missed.

Grocery Store Clerk Shoots Back At Robber in Winston-Salem

Winston-Salem, North Carolina

From the October 4, 2008 Winston-Salem Journal:

A store clerk and a robber shot at each other during an attempted robbery Thursday night, Winston-Salem police said yesterday.

Police said that the store clerk, Soon Kwon, was outside the Liberty Street Grocery on Old Rural Hall Road about 8:40 p.m. when a man came up and pointed a gun at him. The two went inside, and, as Kwon was walking behind the counter to get money, he pushed the store's alarm and grabbed a gun.

The robber shot at Kwon, missing him, and Kwon shot back, police said. It's not clear whether Kwon's shot hit the robber.

Moultrie, Georgia Robbers Shot

Moultrie, Georgia

From September 29, 2008 WXFL channel 31:

Moultrie Police say three men trying to rob a home got an unpleasant surprise when the man who lives there started shooting at them.

Police say 18-year-old Apondrea Marshall, 21-year-old Darnell Slaughter, and 19-year-old Calvin Suggs tried to rob Ivan Hightower’s home on 26th Avenue Saturday night. Hightower told police he looked out the window, saw the men with guns, and started shooting at them with his own weapon. Slaughter and Suggs were hit. Slaughter was treated and released, but Suggs is still in the hospital.

All three men are charged with attempted robbery. Hightower has not been charged with any crime.

Robber Shot In Tuscaloosa

Tuscaloosa, Alabama

From the October 2, 2008 Tuscaloosa News:

TUSCALOOSA | A burglary suspect remains in the hospital after a Crabtree Road resident shot him Sunday afternoon.

Shawn Lincoln, 22, of York is suspected of trying to burglarize the home around 6:30 p.m. Sunday.

Investigators charged Lincoln with first-degree burglary Tuesday. He will be booked into the Tuscaloosa County Jail when he is released from DCH Regional Medical Center, said Capt. Loyd Baker, commander of the Tuscaloosa County Metro Homicide Unit.

Baker said Lincoln approached three people in a yard and asked whether they had drugs. Baker said they told him no, and Lincoln then pulled a gun and forced them into the home. The 22-year-old resident had armed himself by the time they came inside and gunfire was exchanged.

Saturday, October 4, 2008

Tennessee: Riverview Homeowner Holds Shotgun On Thief

Riverview, Tennessee

From the Chattanoogan of October 1, 2008
Riverview Homeowner Holds Shotgun On Thief

Police said a Riverview homeowner found a thief in his car in his carport and held him at bay with a shotgun.

Lewis Card of Edgewood Circle said he heard his driveway alarm going off. He said he grabbed his shotgun and hurried outside.

Mr. Card said he spotted a black male inside his vehicle.

He said he held the shotgun on the intruder and ordered him outside the car. Then he directed him to lie down.

The homeowner said the man told him he was just after some change. Then he patted his pocket, causing the change to jingle.

He asked Mr. Card not to call police, saying he "didn't want to go back to jail."

With the shotgun still trained on him, he handed over his Tennessee ID card. Mr. Card said it appeared to be his correct card.

The man ran off after asking again that police not be called.

Mr. Card turned over the man's ID card to officers.

A warrant was taken out charging Corey Cortez Abernathy with theft under $500.

Friday, October 3, 2008

Ohio: Police say Akron homeowner turns table on home invaders

Akron, Ohio

From the Cleveland Plain Dealer of October 3, 2008
Police say Akron homeowner turns table on home invaders

An Akron homeowner turned the tables on two home invaders who broke into his house with guns, demanding money.

Police said the owner of a home on 2nd Street SW called police at 11 p.m. Thursday to say two men burst in -- armed with a shotgun and a gun -- and demanded money.

The resident and a guest scuffled with the intruders and were able to grab the guns away.

The two intruders were injured in the scuffle and were taken to local hospitals. No shots were fired. The two suspects were still in the hospital late today with injuries that were not life threatening, police said.

Kevin Chambers, and Franklin Rodgers, both 24 and from Akron, each face two counts of aggravated robbery and one count of aggravated burglary when they are released from the hospital.

The homeowner was not charged. Police are still investigating, but Lt. Rick Edwards said it appears to be a case of self-defense.

Pennsylvania: Phila. police: Shooting was self-defense

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

From the Philadelphia Inquirer of September 29, 2008
Phila. police: Shooting was self-defense

City police are still investigating a weekend homicide in South Philadelphia and also have concluded their probe of a fatal shooting in a Southwest Philadelphia neighborhood that they found was in self-defense.

In the Southwest Philadelphia killing, a man in his 20s was fatally shot twice in the chest shortly after 1 a.m. yesterday in the 5100 block of Warrington Street near South 52d Street. Police spokeswoman Christine O'Brien said the man and a 17-year-old male accomplice were trying to rob two other men on the street, who shot them, O'Brien said.

The teen was shot twice in the left arm and was in custody in stable condition at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania last night.

Police did not release the identities of the two would-be robbers or of the pair they were trying to rob.

O'Brien called the shooting "a justifiable homicide" and said no charges would be filed.

North Carolina: Robbery suspect shot, killed

Raleigh, North Carolina

From WTVD of October 3, 2008
Robbery suspect shot, killed

A suspect was shot and killed during a robbery attempt near NC State Thursday night.

Eyewitnesses say a local store owner opened fire as he was being held up around 9 p.m.

The incident happened at Tienda Hispana on Western Boulevard near Clanton Street. A portion of the road was blocked off as police cleared the scene.

Jpse Jimenez, the owner's nephew, says his uncle shot a suspect trying to rob his store and two other suspects fled the scene.

Raleigh Police say the incident is a death investigation and are looking for the other suspects.

Alabama: Man shot by his sister

Jackson County, Alabama

From MyFoxGulfCoast of October 1, 2008
Man shot by his sister

Sheriff's deputies got a call around lunchtime Tuesday that Cathy Slade was begging for help, frightened by a man who was breaking into her home. That man was her brother.

"Upon arrival, they found Thomas Kirkwood laying in the entryway of the kitchen," said Captain Mick Sears with the Jackson County Sheriff's Office.

Kirkwood had been shot in the stomach. Captain Mick Sears with the Jackson County Sheriff's Office said the entire ordeal was caught on tape in a 911 call.

"According to Miss Slade, while she was on the phone with us, he broke out a window in the garage and made entry into the home," said Sears.

Sears says she warned her brother to stay away. When he refused, Slade shot him with a 38-caliber handgun. So, why was Slade afraid of her own brother? Sears says the two had a history of domestic problems. He says their mother just passed away, and Slade is executor of the will which is something that's been a source of contention.

"I think he wanted to circumvent the will and unfortunately made illegal entry into the home at the time and got shot for his effort," said Sears.

Kirkwood is recovering at Singing River Hospital. So far, Sears believes the shooting was self-defense. But he says the investigation is far from over. "Facts may come out later that it was her only recourse or facts may come out that something else could have been done," said Sears.

Those are charges a grand jury will have to decide.

Illinois: 22-year-old shot during alleged break-in charged with burglary

Bloomington, Illinois

From the Pantagraph of October 2, 2008
22-year-old shot during alleged break-in charged with burglary

A 22-year-old Normal man who was shot during an alleged break-in at a Bloomington apartment was charged Wednesday with one count of residential burglary.

Joshua A. McGuire appeared in front of Associate Judge Rebecca Foley in a wheelchair on Wednesday afternoon on the residential burglary charge. He must post $1,500 to be released from the McLean County jail.

McGuire was shot three times in the legs after allegedly breaking into a lower-level unit in an apartment house in the 400 block of West Chestnut Street about 10 p.m. Monday, police said.

The shooting happened after a 51-year-old resident of an upstairs unit in the building heard loud noises, apparently someone kicking in a door to the downstairs apartment, said police spokesman Duane Moss.

Moss said the 51-year-old, carrying a .22 caliber rifle, told police he demanded McGuire lay down on the ground after he saw him exiting the lower-level unit into a building common area. Maguire reportedly refused and reached for his waistband, prompting the man holding the gun to fear he was in danger of being shot, Moss said.

Moss said McGuire was shot twice in the left knee and once in the right, but he allegedly fled the scene. He was treated at BroMenn Regional Medical Center, Normal, which called police.

The shooter told police he saw that someone had kicked in two doors, an entrance to the building itself and the door to the lower-level unit.

No one was home in the lower-level unit when police arrived. Moss said the shooter and the 22-year-old did not know each other prior to the shooting.

The shooter has not been charged in the case, Moss said.

McGuire, who denied in court Wednesday that he stole anything, is due back in court for an arraignment Oct. 10.