An intruder who broke into a home in Albuquerque early Tuesday morning was shot and killed by the armed homeowner, according to the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies were dispatched around 3:45 a.m. to a residence near Lost Horizon Drive, where the break-in took place.
The homeowner reported that they shot the suspect, who was found critically injured when deputies arrived. Paramedics were called to the scene, but the suspect was pronounced dead after being taken to the hospital.
The case is currently under investigation by the sheriff’s violent crimes unit. No charges have been filed against the homeowner at this time. Many local residents have expressed their support for the homeowner, citing the need for self-defense in a city experiencing rising crime.
One social media user wrote, “By the time police get there, it’s too late. We have to protect our own homes.” Another commenter added, “This is why we need the 2nd Amendment. People have the right to defend their property and family.”
The investigation is ongoing, but the homeowner’s decision to use deadly force in defense of their home has sparked strong public support, especially among those concerned with crime in Albuquerque.