An 18 year old burglar was shot in self defense by the owner of an East St. Louis, IL home.
Police reportedly say that just 18 year old Michael Holmes III and another person attempted to break in to a home. The home was being rehabbed by its owner, so that the owner, his wife, and their child could move in to the house. The owner, who is said to be a Navy service member, was working inside the house when the two men are said to have forced their way in. The homeowner opened fire in self defense, killing Holmes. The other suspect then fled, but was apprehended by police a short while later.
Home invasions are a serious threat to the safety of those in the home, as criminals often murder, kidnap, or otherwise harm their innocent victims. Had this man not had a gun, it is almost certain that he would not have been able to call the police and have them respond quickly enough to save him. Similarly, few unarmed people can successfully fight off a pair of home invaders by themselves, especially when those attackers are young males who are near the peak of their physical ability. Fortunately for this man, he was armed for self defense, and managed to save himself from home invaders who had no right to break into his house and endanger his life. Thanks to his quick self defense action, this man's wife and child won't have to mourn the death or serious injury that could have been inflicted upon him by a pair of home invaders.
While it is unfortunate that Holmes lost his life, it is far better that the risk of death fall upon the home invading criminal, rather than their innocent victim.
Comments
The criminal gives up his right to life by making a violent attack. I have no sympathy for them at all.
The absolute goal of self defense is to STOP the ATTACK, not to kill anyone, but the greatest justice is done when the violent criminal dies at the hands of their intended victim. They will never again have the opportunity to harm another person.
Let's get over any mushy sentimentality about vicious, murdering criminals.
Yeah, Puryear. Get over your mushy sentimentality for a perp who broke into another man's home, and not for the purpose of a friendly visit. Instead of calling the perp's death "unfortunate", you should be saying prayers of thanksgiving to whatever deity you believe in , that this homeowner exercised his God-given right to defend himself, family and home. It could very well be you or me, next time.
I'm glad to hear this news story end in favor of the home owner. I am even more gratified that the news reporter seems to be made of "the right stuff". I did not realize good journalism was possible in this country anymore!
If someone breaks into my house, their intent is clear. They will receive two shots to the chest. If that doesn't stop them they will receive at least one more shot to the head. This country would have vastly less crime if we weren't so over-run with nutless girlie-men.
yeah, it was great to see how this piece ended on the homeowners favorite. This is the reason people need to be armed and this is the point of it, self-defense. Someone breaks into your house you could be dead before you even dial the 9 in 9-11. WE can't possibly rely on the police to protect us at each and every moment, there just aren't enough, and I'd rather live in armed society than a police controlled state where they can "protect us" from ourselves and criminals from us, cause the criminals will always be rpotected.
To Sam Adams:
Remember in "The Godfather", when Clemenza is prepping Michael Corleone on how to deal with Sollozzo and Mc Cluskey? " In the back of the head, Mikey, two shots apiece".
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!