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

Henry Spd Hush Gotw 1
Henry Spd Hush Gotw 1

Gun Of The Week: Henry SPD HUSH

For its first design, Henry Repeating Arms' Special Products Division developed the HUSH, or the Henry Ultimate Suppressor Host. 

The Armed Citizen® Dec. 19, 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.

TriStar Arms Protégé X: A Pocket-Size Punch

Inspired by successful designs of the past, the TriStar Arms Protégé X is a pocket-size, M1911-style handgun chambered for the popular 9 mm cartridge.

Hornady Family Honored with Legacy Award

In October, the Hornady family was recognized by the Greater Grand Island Community Foundation for its contribution to the city that Hornady calls home.

I Have This Old Gun: Model 1860 Spencer Carbine

One of the most revolutionary shoulder arms of the American Civil War, the Model 1860 Spencer carbine went from being an experimental design at the war's beginning to ultimately becoming the official issue arm of the U.S. Cavalry by war's end.

New For 2025: Tippmann Arms Integrally Suppressed M4-22s

In anticipation of the upcoming $0 NFA tax stamp enactment, Tippmann Arms is now offering integrally suppressed versions of its M4-22 design.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.