As reported, a 65 year old Hillsborough, NC homeowner opened fire in self defense, after finding 4 intruders in his living room. Police say that the homeowner, whose name has not been released, was at home when he heard his door being forced open. The homeowner grabbed his pistol and saw three intruders in his living room just after 11:30 PM. Fearing for his safety, the homeowner shot one of the home invaders in self defense, and all of the intruders fled, according to police. 19 year old Jerome Williams, who was shot in the chest but is expected to survive, has been charged with first degree burglary. Also charged are three alleged accomplice, who police arrested nearby. The homeowner was unharmed, and police do not expect that he will face charges for his self defense actions.
Criminals often work in groups, using superior numbers to overwhelm their victims. When that happens, even the strongest unarmed victims can be overpowered by the numerically superior criminals. When the crime victim is an older individual, and the criminals are younger, those multiple criminal have an even greater advantage.
However, when that crime victim is armed, things can be quite different. One of the best things about firearms is that they allow a single crime victim to defend themselves against multiple attackers. Here, this 65 year old homeowner used his handgun to fend off 4 young home invaders. Similarly, this man used his handgun to defend himself against 3 violent men who broke into his apartment. This business owner used his shotgun to stop 4 armed robbers who where pistol whipping an employee and threatening the lives of everyone present. This mother used her handgun to defend herself and her young children from a pair of home invading prison escapees. This woman used her gun to fend off 4 home invaders. This man used his gun to save himself and his wife from 4 armed robbers. This 91 year old man used his gun to save himself and his wheelchair bound wife from a pair of armed criminals who broke in to their home. Armed self defense works, and is often a crime victim’s best chance at avoiding harm.
My thanks to Anders for pointing out this self defense case.