RIVERTON, WY — A late-night burglary attempt in Riverton resulted in gunfire and the hospitalization of an alleged intruder on Friday, August 9. The incident occurred shortly after 11:00 PM in the 900 block of E. Park Avenue, when a homeowner confronted a man reportedly attempting to break into the residence.
The Riverton Police Department, alongside officers from the Fremont County Sheriff’s Office, Wyoming Highway Patrol, and Shoshoni Police Department, responded quickly to the scene after receiving reports of a struggle between the homeowner and the suspect, during which shots were fired.
Upon arrival, officers discovered a man in his 20s suffering from an apparent gunshot wound near the home. Witnesses on the scene indicated that the man had been seen trying to break into the residence. The wounded suspect was promptly transported to a local hospital, where he was listed in stable condition.
The homeowner involved in the shooting is fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation, according to police. Detectives are continuing to gather information to determine the exact circumstances leading up to the shooting.
Local authorities have asked anyone with additional information regarding the incident to contact the Riverton Police Department at (307) 856-4891.
This incident underscores the importance of being prepared to defend oneself during a home invasion. In situations where you may be forced to use a firearm in self-defense, it is crucial to ensure you are trained, familiar with your weapon, and understand the legal implications of using lethal force. Cooperation with law enforcement, as demonstrated by the homeowner in this case, is essential in the aftermath of a defensive gun use.