ENGLEWOOD, OH — A man attempting to break into a home on the 600 block of Overla Boulevard early Friday morning was fatally shot by a resident after a confrontation in the backyard.
Englewood police responded to a 911 call placed at approximately 2:03 a.m., reporting an active break-in at the single-family home. According to police, a couple inside the home was awakened by noises indicating an attempted intrusion. While one resident stayed on the phone with dispatchers, the other, armed with a handgun, exited the home to investigate.
Police Chief Corey Follick stated that the armed resident initially believed the intruder had fled. After checking a backyard shed and moving toward the street to assess potential vehicle damage, the resident encountered the suspect. The intruder reportedly advanced on the armed resident, who, fearing for his life, fired three shots.
When officers arrived on the scene, they found the suspect, later identified as 43-year-old Matthew Culham, lying near the southeast corner of the home. Emergency medics pronounced Culham dead at the scene.
Chief Follick noted that Culham’s behavior was unusual for a burglar, as most intruders flee once they realize a home is occupied. Investigators are awaiting toxicology results to determine if other factors influenced Culham’s actions.
This incident marks a rare occurrence for Englewood, which typically experiences less than one homicide per year. The investigation remains ongoing.
In self-defense situations, ensuring safety within your home should be the primary focus. If possible, remain inside, secure a defensible position, and let law enforcement handle external threats. Exiting the home to confront an intruder can increase risk. However, Ohio’s self-defense laws provide legal protections for individuals acting in fear for their life or safety, as demonstrated in this case.
