The Armed Citizen® Jan. 1, 2016

by
posted on January 1, 2016
** 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. **
ac2009_fs-2.jpg

A 79-year-old Tennessee homeowner was determined to have acted in self-defense when he shot two would-be burglars who broke into his home and came into his bedroom late one night. The Petro, Tenn., resident grabbed his revolver and shot one of the intruders in the chest and the other in the stomach. Morgan County Sheriff Glen Freytag said both suspects were taken to nearby medical facilities for treatment. One suspect has been charged in the home invasion, and charges are pending against the other, who is a juvenile. Freytag said no charges will be brought against the homeowner. (Morgan County News, Wartburg, TN, 7/28/15)

The Armed Citizen® Extra
A Detroit homeowner was wounded after engaging in a gunfight with a criminal who was attempting to break into his home. The 55-year-old armed citizen was awakened by sounds outside, and he opened the front door to go investigate. At this point the suspect fired, causing the resident to return fire. The armed burglar then fled the scene, and is still being sought by authorities. The victim’s wounds are not considered life threatening, and it is unknown at this time whether or not his assailant was injured during the incident. (The Detroit News, Detroit, MI, 8/14/15)

From the Armed Citizen® Archives
February 1981
Norma and Eduardo Ortega returned to their Miami, Fla., home to find two burglars ransacking their belongings. One burglar fled the house when Mrs. Ortega found her pistol and fired, but the other hid in the bathroom. He was spread-eagled on the living room floor when police arrived. The second suspect, a juvenile, was arrested later. (The Miami Herald, Miami, FL)

Latest

Ruger Rxm Gotw 1
Ruger Rxm Gotw 1

Gun of the Week: Ruger RXM

On the surface, the RXM appears to be similar to the Glock G19-inspired selection of striker-fired, polymer-frame pistols on the market, but a closer look reveals that there's much more to this modular design.

Rifleman Q&A: How Frequently Should You Clean?

AN NRA member and his brother have identical rifles. One brother cleans every time he shoots. The other cleans every 100 rounds. Which barrel will last longer?

The Armed Citizen® March 20, 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.

NRA Launches New Official App

The National Rifle Association proudly unveiled its new official NRA App today, marking a significant milestone in enhancing member engagement and delivering convenient access to essential NRA resources on the go.

How the Security Team at Temple Israel Stopped a Terrorist

The terrorist attack on Temple Israel, in West Bloomfield Township near Detroit, Mich., was over fast, thanks to a security team that was well-prepared.

RevolverFest & The State of the Modern Wheelgun

Why, in a world of micro nines and omnipresent striker-fired polymer pistols, does the revolver seem to be enjoying a mini Renaissance?

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.