But what if neither pet nor child is the explanation? If a person is alone in their home and hears footsteps or the obvious sound of someone trying to force entry?
An Indiana homeowner who went to bed early Sunday night certainly did not expect to be awakened by a home intruder. That was the situation he found himself in, however, when just after 8:30 p.m. he was startled by the presence of a stranger.
The homeowner soon called 911 to tell authorities that he had shot someone who entered his home.
When Kokomo law enforcement arrived, they discovered the body of 51-year-old Scott Elliot Jones of Kokomo near the front door.
The homeowner told investigators that after being awakened by the odd sounds, he discovered “an unknown man” in his living room. He reported attempting to get the man to leave, but that did not work. A scuffle ensued but ended when the homeowner fired once at the alleged intruder.
The intended victim suffered what were described as “minor abrasions and bruising from the altercation.” Prosecutors are reviewing the evidence, but it is highly unlikely that charges will be filed.
The homeowner is very fortunate that he was prepared and ready to step up against a clear threat. It is unfortunate that the suspect was fatally shot, but a very bad decision was apparently made followed by another one when he was afforded the opportunity to leave.
Unless the facts surrounding the case change, it is a clear-cut case of self-defense.
