Prosecutor: Resident ‘Did Everything Right’ Before Shooting Intruder in Self-Defense

HUNTSVILLE, AL — A 34-year-old man was fatally shot after unlawfully entering a Huntsville residence on Tuesday evening, according to WAFF48. The incident occurred around 5:30 p.m. on Brahan Avenue and has been ruled a case of self-defense.

The deceased, identified as Demetrius Paige, was reportedly involved in a dispute with a man who lived at the apartment. According to Madison County District Attorney Tim Gann, the resident attempted to de-escalate the situation by retreating into his home and locking the door. Despite this, Paige forcibly entered the apartment, prompting the occupant to fire a single round from a firearm.

That bullet struck Paige, causing life-threatening injuries that led to his death at Huntsville Hospital. Unfortunately, the same round also struck a second individual inside the residence, who sustained only minor injuries. Police confirmed that the second person was unintentionally hit.

Following the incident, Huntsville Police’s Major Crimes Unit led the investigation. After reviewing all evidence, the Madison County District Attorney’s Office concluded that the shooting was a clear act of self-defense during a first-degree burglary. No charges will be filed against the resident.

Authorities noted that the apartment complex has seen multiple violent incidents over the past year, prompting increased police presence and curfews enforced by the Huntsville Housing Authority. Officials urged residents to exercise caution about who they allow into their homes, as many recent problems have been linked to non-residents.

This case highlights the importance of understanding your target and what lies beyond it. While the defender acted lawfully in protecting himself from an immediate threat, the unintended injury to a bystander demonstrates the potential risks of using deadly force in close quarters. Training in marksmanship and awareness under stress can help mitigate such risks in defensive scenarios.