Homeowner Kills Suspected Intruder In Baltimore County
ESSEX, Md. (WJZ) -- Two intruders get more than they bargained for during a home invasion in Essex. One person died--another was shot multiple times.
Monique Griego has more.
Police say two suspects broke into an apartment to rob the owner. But that owner fought back and ended up killing one of the intruders.
Baltimore County police swarm the Hartland Village Apartments in Essex after a home invasion takes a violent and deadly turn.
"Scary because I didn't know what was going on," said Sheresse Wardlaw, neighbor.
Just before 1:30 a.m. Sunday morning, Sheresse Wardlaw came home to find her entire complex in the 1400 block of Strawflower Road taped off. She'd later find out her neighbor fought off two intruders.
Police say the suspects forced their way into his apartment. But once inside, the owner fought back.
"At some point there was an altercation between one of the suspects and the victim. At which time, the suspect shot the victim multiple times," said Lt. Rob McCullough, Baltimore County Police.
But that wasn't the end of it. Despite being shot, the owner was able to grab a blunt object and strike one of the intruders in the head, killing him. The second intruder escaped before police arrived.
Investigators do not believe this was a random crime.
"If they didn't know this victim, they knew of this victim and they specifically targeted this individual," McCullough said.
The apartment owner is expected to be okay. His neighbors--still a little shaken up--are happy he was able to defend himself.
"Somebody breaking into your house, you want to be able to fend them off. You don't want to feel vulnerable," said Darius Bryant, neighbor.
"If someone comes in your property, you have to protect it," said Wardlaw.
Again, the apartment owner is listed in stable condition.
Police are looking for the second intruder. If you have any information, you're asked to call Baltimore County Police at 410-307-2020.
