If during the commission of a home invasion one is confronted by an armed resident, the best thing to do is comply with their orders. If the homeowner allows you to leave, you should look upon that as a gift and graciously accept.
According to Alabama authorities, an intruder was afforded this choice but instead decided to go on a destructive rampage and make threats against the family. It cost him his life.
The deadly incident occurred in Foley, Alabama on Tuesday. According to the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office, at roughly 11:10 a.m. deputies were called to the scene of a burglary.
While en route, responding officers were notified that the homeowner shot the alleged burglar. On arrival they found the suspect dead from an apparent gunshot wound and the homeowner waiting for them.
The shooter wisely was not armed when deputies arrived and fully cooperated.
In the course of the investigation, the alleged burglar was identified as Noah Hastings of Foley. Preliminary findings showed that the suspect entered the home uninvited, though exactly what transpired at that point is not clear.
According to authorities, there were three adults and five small children in the residence.
Once inside, investigators believe Hastings was confronted by the unidentified and armed homeowner. Warned to leave the home, the suspect complied and went outside before escalating the confrontation.
He reportedly began destroying property there and made threats that he would kill the homeowner. Fearing for his safety and that of the occupants of the home, the intended victim shot Hastings.
Charges have not been filed against the homeowner.
Any burglar is risking their life, but when they invade a residence with eight people present, the chances of a tragic ending greatly increase. It is fortunate that no other injuries were reported, and regrettable that the alleged intruder was not smart enough to leave when he had the chance.
