The Armed Citizen® June 1, 2020

by
posted on June 1, 2020
** 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. **
armed-citizen-main-image.jpg
Armed Citizen® Today

Late in the evening on Saturday, April 5, a homeowner in Spokane, Wash., woke after hearing a noise in his downstairs kitchen. He grabbed his shotgun and headed downstairs to investigate.

When he entered the kitchen, the homeowner found an unknown 29-year-old man using his microwave. The homeowner then demanded that the intruder leave, and the intruder responded that he didn't understand why the homeowner was so mad, as he was doing their dishes.

The 29-year-old suspect then approached the homeowner, and a struggle for the shotgun ensued. The homeowner fired one round into the ground, which caused the suspect to stumble away. He reloaded his shotgun as the suspect approached him once again and fired a round into the assailant's leg.

As the struggle ensued, the homeowner's wife had called the police, informed dispatchers that her husband had a gun and had found the alleged intruder. Deputies arrived at the scene to find the 29-year-old suspect yelling for help and bleeding from a shotgun wound to the leg.

One deputy applied a tourniquet to the wounded suspect and detained him as medical responders arrived at the scene. The suspect told deputies that he thought he was at a friend's house but later admitted that his friend was in prison. Investigators found no evidence that the suspect's friend had ever been in contact with the homeowners.

At the time of reporting, the suspected burglar was in the hospital and facing charges of first-degree burglary. The homeowner will not face any charges. (KXLY, Spokane, Wash., 04/05/2020)
  
   
From the Armed Citizen® Archives December 1973

A youthful robber confronted Wesley Krouse of Phoenix, Ariz., at his front door and, armed with a .22-cal. revolver, forced the 72-year-old Krouse to turn over some cash and the keys to his truck.

But when the thief pushed the septuagenarian into his bedroom, Krouse grabbed a 12-ga. shotgun and exchanged fire with the bandit, who was killed instantly. (The Arizona Republic, Phoenix, Ariz.)

Latest

Gotw Tristar Arms Kr22 1
Gotw Tristar Arms Kr22 1

Gun of the Week: TriStar Arms KR.22

Semi-automatic .22 rifles have been a staple in the firearm marketplace for decades, and the TriStar Arms KR.22 brings yet another lightweight, affordable option that accepts Ruger 10/22 rotary magazines.

Political Report | Trump Reiterates National Right-to-Carry Support

I am repeatedly reminded of how critical it was that the NRA engaged early in supporting Donald Trump’s 2016 candidacy—and that he won. A recent example came in June, when President Trump spoke to American workers at a Mack Trucks facility in Macungie, Pa.

The Armed Citizen® Aug. 21, 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.

The Norinco TU-33/40: A Rimfire Mauser Lookalike from China

The Norinco TU-33/40 is, at a glance, a copy of a Mauser 98k with a few choice details that give away the fact that it’s not a big-bore World War II workhorse.

AI Tools Enter the Used-Gun Market

Companies that deal in the used-gun market are not shy about sharing the advantages their AI-driven tools and services.

Standing Guard | Standing on the Line for Freedom

This past August marks 46 years since I raised my right hand and was commissioned as an infantry officer in the United States Marine Corps. In the summer of 1980, I entered active duty with a firm sense of civic duty and a deep desire to serve our great nation. Like so many who wear the uniform, I was ready to contribute directly to the defense of freedom.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.