The Armed Citizen® Aug. 19, 2024

by
posted on August 19, 2024
** 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. **
The Armed Citizen

Armed Citizen® Today

A critically injured homeowner in Wilmington, N.C., returned fire against an armed intruder at his front door, saving his own life and the life of his wife.

At about 3 a.m., the 62-year-old homeowner was awakened by the ringing of his front doorbell and pounding on the door. He got up and opened the door for the 74-year-old suspect, who immediately opened fire, critically wounding him. The homeowner's wife attempted to shut the front door as their attacker tried to force his way in. During the struggle, the wounded homeowner grabbed his gun and fired once. The round passed through the door and struck the suspect in the head, killing him.

The homeowner was rushed to a local hospital and is currently in critical condition. He faces no charges. "Last night, a homeowner faced a dire situation when a suspect attempted to forcefully enter his home. In defense of his life and property, the homeowner acted within his rights," New Hanover County Sheriff Ed McMahon said in a release. "Our investigation has determined that the homeowner used necessary force to protect himself and his family." (Star News Online; New Hanover, N.C.; 7/13/24)

From the Armed Citizen® Archives – November 1962

While moving into a new home in North Hollywood, Calif., Robert Fuller, an actor in a television Western series, heard noises at a window. He grabbed a pistol, dashed out the front door and caught a man about to crawl through a window. Fuller held the man at gunpoint while a passing motorist called police. (Associated Press)

Latest

Yhm Victra 12 Suppressor Review 1
Yhm Victra 12 Suppressor Review 1

Review: Yankee Hill Machine Victra-12 Shotgun Suppressor

Yankee Hill Machine has recently released its Victra-12 shotgun suppressor, which promises to quiet the report of a 12-gauge shotgun while adding less weight than ever before.

A Clear Advantage: The Shield Sights OSMx Competition Red-Dot

Based on its OMSsc red-dot optic introduced last year, Shield Sights has launched the larger, competition-oriented OSMx red-dot for 2026.

Gun of the Week: Taurus 66 Combat Revolver

Taurus USA recently expanded its revolver line with the 66 Combat, a larger, all-steel revolver chambered for the .357 Magnum cartridge. Watch our "Gun of the Week" video to see the 66 Combat in use on the range.

The Armed Citizen® March 6, 2026

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

Armed Citizens Outperform the Police in Stopping Mass Murderers

A recent crime study indicates that armed citizens are better at stopping mass killers than the police.

Building A Legacy: One Hunter's Journey Toward a 338 ARC Bolt-Action

Hornady's 338 ARC cartridge was designed to pack plenty of subsonic power into an AR-sized platform. But how does it perform if you're looking to build something a bit more traditional?

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.