But life is unpredictable, and exercising the Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms is much like purchasing insurance. The hope is that you will never have to use it, but it is a godsend when needed.
The insurance of owning a firearm was a blessing for a Chicago homeowner on Labor Day. Police report that the 26-year-old resident of the Belmont Cragin neighborhood was home shortly before 1 p.m. on Monday when an intruder suddenly entered.
While the homeowner was undoubtedly startled, they were able to retrieve their weapon and fired at least two shots. The alleged intruder was struck in the chest twice.
The wounded suspect was able to flee the scene but did not make it far. He was found nearby by police and was rushed to the hospital in critical condition. WGN-TV reported he was 35 years old, and residents watched in shock as he was removed on a stretcher.
A concerned neighbor spoke with the outlet after the peace of the holiday was shattered by the violent incident. Andre Davis told the station, “For the most part, this block is generally pretty peaceful. But it definitely hits close to home. I don’t know what happened to the offender. That’s what happens, though. People are at a point where they are protecting themselves.”
Yes, they are. As these scenarios become yet more familiar, they are a warning that it is critical to be prepared for the unexpected. The sheer randomness of violent crime hits home when people see their neighbors become targets of criminals.
For one Chicago resident, the holiday could have turned tragic. But they were smart and courageous enough to be prepared to act when necessary. It may have saved their life.
