Fear & Loading: Gun Collector Targeted

by
posted on January 30, 2017
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
fl.jpg

Armed home invaders knew it was a gun owner they were robbing at 2 a.m. on Jan. 26 in Mississippi. It started with a pistol whipping and escalated to five shots in his legs—perhaps to coerce him to open the gun safe. It’s an ugly reminder for all of us to be careful who discovers you’re a firearm enthusiast.

An official for the Rankin County Sheriff’s office said the victim is recovering from his wounds, but 25 to 30 guns were taken in the heist according to this news report. “…[T]his was not a random act of violence,” the law enforcement agency explained to station WLBT. “The victim was known to at least one of the suspects, and was targeted because he was a firearms collector.”

Federal and state authorities have been called in to aid the investigation. Authorities believe at least three perpetrators were in on the heist, taking guns that range from AR-15s to .38 Spl. revolvers. With the U.S. Marshalls involved, it’s possible at least one of the suspects is a known fugitive.

It’s still unknown how the perpetrators learned about the enthusiast or his collection. At least one news source claims the victim is a firearm dealer.

Regardless of the information’s source, it’s a scary reminder we should be cautious. It’s a shame, too, but even an innocent family member’s comment to a trusted friend could be overheard or relayed to someone with criminal intentions.  

Latest

Mossberg 940 Pro New Models 01
Mossberg 940 Pro New Models 01

Mossberg Introduces SPX & Professional Models To 940 Pro Tactical Line

Mossberg has expanded its popular 940 Pro Tactical shotgun line with SPX and Professional models, with each adding a slate of upgraded components and accessories designed to enhance the shotgun's capabilities.

Preview: Streamlight Sidewinder X

This high-output, multi-fuel, military-style light with a tilting head is perfect for hunters and home defenders looking for more than just a handheld light...

The Armed Citizen® July 4, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

A Guide To Double-Stack 1911s

The 2011 brings double-stack capacity and modular upgrades to the 1911 platform, but not every wide-body 1911 out there earns that name.

Legislators Enjoy Afternoon Of Clays With Benelli USA, Among Others

A bipartisan group of Maryland state legislators met with firearm industry manufacturers and representatives for a day of clays shooting while also attending discussions on the positive economic impacts of the shooting sports.

2025 Ammunition Product Of The Year: Winchester .21 Sharp

For continuing to innovate, particularly in a corner of the ammo world that has seen very little recently, we named the Winchester .21 Sharp as our Ammunition Product Of The Year.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.