Man Shoots Home Invader: “I have the right to protect myself”

Pierce County Sheriff’s Department is investigating a home invasion that involved homeowner Jerahme Smith, 31, fatally shooting one of the two suspects.

The homeowner says he shot at the suspects while they attempted to break in through his backdoor around 4 A.M.

One of the suspects escaped and the other, a 24-year-old man, was found dead by deputies in the front yard.

“When everything first started, the first thing I had to do was take a few breaths and calm myself down because I knew it could have gone one of two ways. I didn’t know who they were, I didn’t know what they had, but the first thing I did–and it’s the honest to God truth–is I took a few breaths to myself. That way I knew I was calm enough to make a proper judgment decision,” said Smith via Fox 13 Seattle.

Smith also says he will continue standing by his decision to defend himself and his home, of which, occupied by his wife and three children, his sister was also present at the time of the scene.

“It kind of goes back to your rights. I have the right to carry and I have the right to protect myself and I have the right to protect my property,” said Smith. “Protect yourself. That doesn’t mean go looking for it, that means just be ready.”

Crime has been increasing in the homeowner’s neighborhood, with others saying they have increased security measures to their home.

The homeowner’s statements further emphasize the importance of having a firearm for personal and home defense. Additionally, a heightened sense of composure helps nonetheless.

Fortunately, Smith was able to have the right amount of time to analyze the situation that would best suit the safety of his home. 

These are things to consider when it comes to home defense, which poses the matter that we must have a plan ready when things go down. These suspects broke in at a time when most people are sound asleep.

When it comes to firearm ownership, Smith makes an important note, and that is to not go look for trouble, but rather of utmost significance is to stay ready.