Texas man wounds robber: "It was a phone call he says he'll never forget — his wife's voice on his cellphone pleading "there's nothing in my purse" to someone pointing a gun at her face. That's what a 56-year-old Fort Worth man, who is licensed to carry a concealed weapon, said he heard before he shot an armed robber late Tuesday at a grocery store... The Samaritan said he and his wife made a late stop at the store for yogurt and soda. He sat outside in the car while his wife went inside. He soon noticed two men crouching suspiciously in the parking lot. About 11:30 p.m., three men carrying semiautomatic weapons burst into Albertsons, 3525 Sycamore School Road, in an "invasion-style manner," said Lt. Dean Sullivan, a police spokesman. Outside, the Samaritan said he watched the robbers go in and dialed 911. He said he told the dispatcher he was worried about his wife and was going inside. "I was hoping she was still at the back of the store near the yogurt," he said. "But as I walking up, she called my cellphone. I heard her talking about her purse and then a heard a loud banging sound.".. The Samaritan said he entered the store and saw a man pointing a gun at him, so he raised his hands in the air. They both started to speak at the same time. Then, the Samaritan said, he sensed that the man was about to shoot him. “He has his finger on the trigger,” he said. So, he said, he drew his Berretta and fired first."


Georgia motorist fights back in robbery: "A Columbus motorist decided he wasn't going to take it after a robber took his wallet at gunpoint on Tennessee Drive Monday night, police said. Jerrod Towers was stopped in his 1996 Lincoln Town Car at Tennessee Drive and Matilda Lane about 11 p.m. when a man pulled up in a white Chevy Caprice, stepped from the vehicle, put a handgun to Towers' head and demanded money. Towers complied and put his wallet on the ground. The gunman demanded more. When Towers said he didn't have any more, the robber put one hand around Towers' neck. The victim took that opportunity to drive away from his attacker, who quickly fired two rounds, police said. Towers stopped his car, popped his trunk, pulled a shotgun out and fired a round at the robber who was at that time running back to his own vehicle, police said. The robber wasn't hit, and Towers escaped unharmed."


North Carolina oldster Shoots Intruder During Home Invasion: "An elderly man feared for his life and shot a 23-year-old man who broke into his home Tuesday night in Hickory. The 79-year-old man woke up to find that someone had broken into his home. His quick thinking may have saved his life and his wife’s. The man told his wife to go the neighbor’s house and be safe. Get out while she could. The man then grabbed his handgun that he had in the house and waited for the intruder. When the burglar walked into his bedroom, the elderly man shot him in the head. The elderly man said it was a split second decision and one that he doesn’t regret. Investigators said the man had a right to defend himself and his home. The 23-year-old intruder is in the hospital and is expected to survive. Investigators said that he would be arrested as soon as he is discharged from the hospital"

Florida thief shot but gets away: "A clerk at a Jacksonville service station shot a robber Tuesday morning, but couldn't stop the robbery, police said. Two men came into the Broward BP at 1188 Broward Road about 10:30 a.m. While one pointed a gun, the other jumped the counter and began struggling with the clerk, said Sgt. Bill Vanaman of Jacksonville Sheriff's Office. The clerk had his own gun and shot the man struggling with him, but then he was then disarmed, Vanaman said. The robbers then took the store's money and left in an off-white four-door Saturn, police said."


Florida store owner fights back: "Police say the two robbers had forced the store owner at gunpoint to the ground and were on their way out after stealing money and ripping off the stores surveillance system, but apparently the owner didn't plan on going down without a fight. The store clerk got up, grabbed his gun, came out of the store, and yelled at them to stop. One of the males turned around pointed the gun at the store clerk and said, 'I will shoot you.' At that point, the store clerk did shoot the bad guy. ” Bullets and evidence markers litter the area, as police try to piece it all together. They recovered two guns. The owner managed to wrestle the robber away and hold him for police. Beal says the store has had many problems. This time the owner sent a strong message. Police say it looks like this was a case of self defense and it doesn't immediately look like Saed will face charges. Investigators are looking for the second robber who fled in a maroon Ford Taurus."


Kentucky murder charge dropped: "A murder charge against 19-year-old Troy L. Cole has been dropped after police determined that he was likely acting in self-defense. Cole was charged with the murder of 15-year-old Jordan Adams, who was shot just after midnight Sunday in the 4500 block of Beechbrook Road in Norfolk. Lt. Barry Wilkerson said this afternoon that after interviewing Cole and witnesses, police believe Cole was being robbed by Adams and another 15-year-old when an altercation broke out and Adams showed a gun. That prompted Cole to shoot in self defense, Wilkerson said. The other 15-year-old, whose name has not been released because he is a juvenile, has been charged with robbery, Wilkerson said. Cole is still charged with tampering with physical evidence, but his bond was reduced after the murder charge was dropped, Wilkerson said. Adams was a runaway who dropped out of Seneca High School, according to Christopher 2X, a spokesman for his family."

Some Oklahoma history: 'King of bank robbers' nabbed by teen: "Badman Henry Starr, called the "king of the bank robbers," was captured by a teenage boy who shot the bandit after he and his gang had robbed two banks at Stroud. "I wouldn't have minded it so much if a man had shot me," Starr reportedly said after being wounded. The boy, Paul Curry, heard gunfire from the bandits as they marched several hostages from both banks toward the livery stable after the March 26, 1915, robbery. He borrowed a .44-caliber octagon-barreled rifle and ammunition and hid behind his father's grocery store, waiting for a good shot. As Starr, whose identity Curry didn't know but who appeared to be the leader, approached, the boy shot him in the hip. Starr fell, Curry ran up to him, pointed the rifle at him and ordered, "Drop your gun or I'll kill you." Starr followed the order. Curry was 19, although some newspapers listed his age as 17 or 18, but looked to be 14. He picked up Starr's gun and turned his attention to Lewis Estes, another bandit, who had mounted his horse and returned to help his fallen leader. Curry shot him in the neck but Estes was able to ride out of town, leaving a trail of blood and silver dollars, which he had stuffed into his pockets during the robbery. He was found leaning against a tree near the town cemetery."


Kentucky man Shoots and Kills Son-In-Law: "Police say a homeowner shot and killed a man, suspected of trying to break into his home. It happened in a trailer on Sinking Creek Road late Sunday night, just off west Highway 80. Kentucky State Police tell 27 NEWSFIRST 46-year-old Jesse Justice reportedly tried to enter the home, and that he was armed with a Machete. When police arrived, they found Justice dead at the scene, shot and killed by the homeowner, Paul Whitworth, the suspect's father-in-law. Police say that an active Domestic Violence Disorder was in effect at the time against Justice, taken out by his wife, Edna Whitworth, and her parents. No charges have been filed in the case.


Arizona Robbery Escalates Into 2 Gun Battles: "What began as an armed robbery at a South Phoenix jewelry store escalated into two gun battles on Monday, leaving two of the three robbers wounded, police said. The first gun battle erupted outside Luxor Jewelers between the robbers -- a woman and two men -- and store employees, police said. The two men jumped a block wall, officers said. Two jewelry employees chased them on foot, where a second gun battle broke out near the parking lot of a K-Mart store at 331 E. Baseline Road. Both men were hit by bullets, detectives said. One of them suffered life-threatening injuries, according to officers. The second robber was driven to a hospital by the woman, police said. Officers said they caught up with them there. One of the jewelry store employees was grazed by bullet and treated at the scene, police said."

Florida man tried for defending himself against a gang: Norman Borden doesn't want to be the poster boy for Florida's self-defense laws. He never wanted to kill anyone, but he did. He killed two. He was walking his four dogs near his home in the Westgate neighborhood west of West Palm Beach with his friend. It was after 2 a.m. on Oct. 8, in the rough neighborhood where homeless settle and gang activity has grown. There was an altercation between Borden and Juan Mendez, 21, and Christopher Araujo, 19. Heated words were exchanged, the men reportedly threatened to hurt Borden's dogs. He showed them he had a gun. But it wasn't over. The men sped away and picked up Saul Trejo, 21, a documented member of a violent gang. Armed with bats, they headed straight to Borden, and he fired. Fourteen gunshots later, Araujo and Trejo were dead, Mendez injured. Prosecutors said the first five shots fired at the windshield were self-defense, the next nine were murder. "When I called 911 that night, I didn't believe I would be put in jail," Borden said. "The simple fact of the matter was that it was a do-or-die situation." Borden said he's almost positive Mendez, who he said started the incident with taunts and threats, had a gun that night; his attorney told jurors that Mendez had opportunity to hide a gun before deputies and paramedics arrived.... Though Public Defender Carey Haughwout vigorously argued that Borden was immune from prosecution as a result of a 2005 Florida law that became known as the "stand your ground" law, Circuit Judge William Berger declined to dismiss the charges and the case went to trial. Eleven women and one man on the jury reached their not-guilty verdict in two hours. Now he's a free man."


Texas senior shoots robber: "An elderly man shot a 31-year-old man who he said had robbed him at gunpoint late Friday night in northeast Dallas. Charlie Andrew Myers III of Dallas was recovering Saturday from gunshot wounds in the throat and shoulder at Baylor University Medical Center. Amor Kerboua, 79, was driving into the parking lot of his apartment in the 6400 block of Melody Lane, near Northwest Highway and Skillman Street, when a man police identified as Mr. Myers approached him, according to a police report. Mr. Myers put a handgun in Mr. Kerboua's face and demanded money, police said. Thinking it was a joke, Mr. Kerboua pushed the gun away, but Mr. Myers pointed it at his face again. Mr. Kerboua opened his back door and handed Mr. Myers a cup containing $242.50. Mr. Myers then pointed the gun at Mr. Kerboua's stomach and told him, "I'm going to shoot you, [expletive]," according to the police report. Mr. Kerboua then drew a .38-caliber Smith & Wesson handgun from his front pocket and shot Mr. Myers in the throat. Mr. Myers fell to the ground but kept his handgun pointed at Mr. Kerboua, who then fired two more times into Mr. Myers' shoulder, police said. Investigators released Mr. Kerboua, who has a concealed handgun permit, after concluding that he had shot in self-defense."

Oklahoma: Pit Bull Shot After Attack: "Midwest City police said they wouldn't cite a man who shot a pit bull terrier that was attacking a meter reader. Jason Fish was reading a meter for Oklahoma Gas and Electric Friday when police said the dog attacked him. A neighbor heard Fish screaming and shot and killed the animal with a shotgun. Midwest City Police Chief Brandon Clabes said Fish was taken to a local hospital with serious injuries. Clabes said the dog's owner -- Terry Almon -- was cited for harboring a vicious animal."


Oregon man, 71, wounds intruder: "A Northeast Portland homeowner who came face to face with an intruder in the early morning darkness Friday shot him once in the head, leaving him seriously injured, family members and authorities said. About 4:50 a.m., Leroy Hudson, 71, and his wife, Janice, 62, awakened to the sound of a break-in, said Walter Hudson, 49, the second of the couple's nine children. Walter Hudson relayed his parents' account of events: Leroy Hudson was asleep upstairs and Janice Hudson was asleep downstairs in their home near Northeast 107th Avenue and Glisan Street. When they heard suspicious noises from their enclosed back porch, they met in a hall and got out a gun. Janice Hudson called 9-1-1 to report an intruder. Leroy Hudson opened the back door of the house and found a man standing in front of him. He demanded to know what the man was doing, hoping to scare him off. But the man said nothing. Instead, he walked toward Leroy Hudson, and Hudson raised the gun and shot him. Police arrived soon after. Police have not released the intruder's identity but think he's about 26 years old, said Officer Brian Schmautz, a Portland Police Bureau spokesman. The man's gunshot wound was life-threatening and he had surgery at Legacy Emanuel Hospital & Health Center, Schmautz said. No condition report was available. No charges have been pressed in the incident."


Florida business owner fires at robbers, hits bystander: "After two men shoved guns in an auto shop owner's face, taking $1,300 from his business, the owner grabbed his own gun, followed them outside and fired, police said. Police don't know if any of the shots hit either robber, but one did hit a bystander in the ankle. The bystander, who police would not identify Wednesday, was taken to an area hospital with an injury said to be not life-threatening. According to police, investigations into both the robbery and the shooting, which happened shortly after 1 p.m., are continuing. Richard Hydro, 54, owner of Motor Werkes, in the 4600 block of Dyer Avenue, was not held by police. A man answering the telephone at his home said the business owner had been advised not to discuss the shooting. Riviera Beach spokeswoman Rose Anne Brown, however, said, "The (robbery) victim, in fear of his life, followed the subjects and shot at them." She added that a second encounter outside the business preceded the shooting, but said she had no information on what took place. The robbers took cash and personal credit cards, police said. Hydro has a concealed weapons permit, according to state records. He has owned the property where the business is since 1993, records show."

Alabama man captures intruder at gunpoint: "Three people apparently didn’t believe in the old saying “three strikes and you’re out,” or else they wouldn’t have attempted to burglarize the same Sardis City home Wednesday morning. Sardis City police Chief James Alverson said he believes three men were responsible for burglaries on June 21 and Monday of a U.S. 431 South residence and apparently were attempting a third burglary when things didn’t go as planned. Alverson said a friend of the homeowner was staying at the home Wednesday when he heard a vehicle pull up to the house and blow its horn. The unidentified friend told police he looked out the window and saw a black truck, with which he was not familiar, in front of the house. A short time later, the doorbell rang, but the friend did not respond. Alverson said the friend told police that, a few minutes later, one of the men popped open the lock on the back door with a screwdriver and entered the house. The man then started toward the basement door in what was believed to be an effort to let an accomplice into the house. The homeowner’s friend, who had a pistol, confronted the surprised burglar and told him, “Don’t you move!” Believing he might be shot, the man did not move. Then the friend proceeded to take the intruder outside, asking him, “Where’s your other buddy at?” A man in the pickup truck in the driveway saw his partner being held at gunpoint and quickly drove back to U.S. 431."


Indiana shooting could be self-defense: "A Hobart man is hospitalized after a fight ended with a shooting Tuesday evening that police believe could be ruled self-defense. Witnesses say Lawrence Halt, 43, was in an argument in front of his next-door neighbor's home in the 100 block of North Guyer Street when he put Michael Peco in a headlock. Police believe they were fighting over whether Halt would be allowed to do home repair work for Peco, according to police. Halt followed Peco into his home, where police believe he again put Peco in a headlock. During a struggle, Peco drew a .38-caliber semiautomatic pistol and shot Halt, once in the hand and again in the chest, said Detective Lt. Leo Finnerty. "He was in fear, and he shot him twice," Finnerty said. Halt was hospitalized but he was awake and alert Wednesday morning when he was interviewed by police, he said."


Florida: Thieves load boat; victim unloads gun: "A Mary Esther man had his boat stolen from his home, but the thieves didn’t get away before he had a chance to shoot at their truck. Three men went on the man’s property on U.S. Highway 98 and loaded his boat into the back of their truck on June 27, according to a Sheriff’s Office report. They left with the boat and the victim followed, and when the boat owner had the chance, he shot at the rear wheel of the truck with a Smith and Wesson. It’s not clear if he was able to hit the truck, but his aggressive response must have helped. Two of the men have been arrested. Christopher Clark, 23, and Elliott Stone, 20, both of Mary Esther, have been charged with burglary and larceny.

Florida: Subway Customer Shoots, Kills Robbery Suspect: "One man is dead and another in critical condition after the duo was shot by a customer while they were attempting to rob a Plantation Subway shop Wednesday night, police said. Police said 71-year-old John Lovell II used a licensed gun to shoot the alleged robbers at the Subway on North Pine Island Road and Sunrise Boulevard. According to investigators, two armed men entered the restaurant, pointing guns and demanding money. Lovell turned around and saw a gun pointed at his face. Plantation police said that's when he took the law into his own hands. "As the customer was being forced into the restroom at gunpoint, the customer, who was in fear for his life and legally armed, shot the robbery suspects," said Plantation Police Department spokesman Robert Rittig. Police said one of the suspects was fatally shot in the head. He was identified as 22-year-old Donicio Ricardo Arrindell. The other suspect, 21-year-old Fredrick Gerard Gadson, was shot in the chest and was able to run nearly 300 yards into a nearby Bank Atlantic parking lot while trying to escape, police said. Gadson was charged with armed robbery and murder. Police said Gadson got charged with murder because, even though he did not shoot Arrindell, someone was killed while Gadson was allegedly committing a felony. Lovell's neighbor Wendi Hill said she spoke with Lovell several times Thursday morning. "He said everything happened in less than four seconds," Hill said. She said it didn't surprise her at all that Lovell took action against the robbers. "He's a very smart guy," she said. "I mean, retired pilot, retired ex-Marine." Police said Lovell will not be charged with a crime."


Ohio Resident Fights Back, Shoots Burglary Suspects: "Police are trying to determine the events that led up to an apparent home invasion and shooting on Thursday afternoon. According to neighbors, two armed men attempted to break into a home on Koebel Road at about 12:30 p.m. A short time later, neighbors said they heard gunshots, NBC 4 reported. Police said the resident was home alone when the alleged break-in occurred. According to police, the victim shot both suspects, striking one of them in the leg. The men fled the scene, but were later arrested and taken to Grant Medical Center in stable condition. Neighbors said the incident was the second attempted break-in at the man's home in less than a year. Police said the homeowner will not face charges because he was defending himself."


Tennessee man turns tables on teen burglar: "Sheriff's Investigator Julie Webb wishes every home invasion could have such positive results. "It worked out awesome," said Webb, the lead investigator on the case. It was a burglary where the occupants of a River Hills Drive residence awoke to find an armed burglar in their home, only to wrestle away his weapon, chase him from their home, and later identify him for the arrest. "We had wonderful victims that handled themselves as well as you could ask for," she said. At about 1 a.m., a male resident awoke at his usual time, but noticed that some things were out of place, Webb said. "He said it took him a minute to register," she said, but he quickly found a masked man with a rifle in a bedroom. The masked man, Craig Majors, 19, who gave a 211 Al Orta Drive address, pointed the rifle at him and "told him not to look at him, turn around, or he would kill him," Webb said. Majors then demanded money, to which the victim responded that they use debit cards and don't keep money in the house. Majors decided to take the victim to a nearby ATM to withdraw his money. Still holding the gun at the victim's back, Majors led him to the garage where he found some bungee cord to tie him up with. As he tied him up, Majors held the gun under his arm, which turned out to be a mistake. "(The victim) said to me he realized that was his opportunity," Webb said. "He turned around and jumped on this man, and the fight was on." The victim, who is in his 50's, yelled as he fought Majors, and his wife awoke to find them fighting in the garage. She then struck the burglar in the side of the head. The male victim was able to get an upper hand in the fight, Webb said, as the gun lay on the ground. Majors then got on top of the victim, but the victim was able to kick him off and down a staircase. He then picked up the gun and attempted to fire it, but it didn't fire, so he started swinging the gun at Majors who ran, Webb said."

New gun control: Shut down shops

Store says feds confiscating licenses for inadvertent trivia

The government is using paperwork errors as small as the abbreviation of a city name to shut down some of the nation's longest-serving gun shops, and 2nd Amendment advocates fear the right to bear arms will mean little if there's no way to obtain a gun. "No good deed goes unpunished," Larry Pratt, of Gun Owners of America, told WND while confirming that as recently as 15 or 20 years ago, there were 250,000 licensed gun dealers in the United States.

Today, the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives told WND, there are 108,381, and if more cases involving dealers such as Red's Trading Post of Twin Falls, Idaho, develop, that number will plummet quickly.

Ryan Horsley, a spokesman for Red's, which has been in business 71 years, said the store has been battling over its license because of rules infractions such as a missing poster for more than six years. He's launched an online petition asking Congress to intervene and halt the "blatant targeting of law abiding dealers." It also seeks a "fair, constitutional and speedy appeals process" and has attracted thousands of signatures. His company also has a federal lawsuit pending against the ATF over its announcement that Red's firearms dealership license was being withdrawn.

Attorney Mark Geston said the case asks the court to review the statute and the "propriety" of the decision that was made. Horsley said the reason Red's is facing a revocation is - at most - insignificant paperwork mistakes.

More here





Nebraska burglary. Race is mentioned. I wonder why? "A couple being robbed in their home Monday night was able to fire a shot at the burglars, police said. At about 10:30 p.m. Monday, police said three white men entered at home at 11029 Jones St. through an open garage door. The residents told police the robbers demanded money at gunpoint. One of the residents was able to grab a gun and fire. No one was hit and burglars got away."


California: Violent barber shop invasion (Race not mentioned this time): "Police are looking for a gunman in connection with a morning gun battle at a local barber shop that left at least one of the shooters injured. Officers on the scene found a 31-year-old Antioch man, who is a barber at the shop, bleeding from several gunshots to his legs. He is in stable condition at a nearby hospital, Addington said. The barber told police that he was alone inside the barbershop when a man walked in and started spraying gunfire. The barber pulled out a .45 caliber handgun that he had in his waist band, and returned fire, Addington said. The gunman fled and jumped into a Buick Park Avenue that sped away. Nearly two hours later, police received a call from an area car dismantler and salvage yard about a suspicious car that had just been left there. A man dropped it off minutes before wanting to buy windshields to replace the car's front and back windows, which had been shot out, Addington said. The car was also punctured by myriad bullet holes. The driver fled the scene before officers arrived at yard, Addington said. Detectives are actively investigating leads to the gunman's identity, Addington said."

Nevada: Las Vegas jewellery store robber shot by clerk "A neighborhood is briefly on lockdown, following a shootout in a local jewelry store. Now one person is dead and police are searching for a possible suspect. The search is on for that possible suspect, but right now Metro has two people in custody. It was a crime that had police scrambling through several eastside neighborhoods chasing a suspected robber. It all started at a jewelry store. Police say two or three men and a woman went in with guns to rob the place. They say they were confronted by a woman working in the store, and during that run-in one of the suspects ended up shot. That suspect later died. People in the neighborhood saw the other suspected robbers run right by them."


Louisiana homeowner kills suspected burglar: "A homeowner shot and killed a suspected burglar this morning after finding him breaking into a car and a storage shed in his townhouse development. Police said the homeowner tried to hold the burglar at bay until officers arrived, but the burglar tried to attack him. The 49-year-old homeowner was questioned by police and released with no charges filed. The case will be sent to the district attorney for a decision on whether charges should be filed. Killed was Jonathan Sternitzky, 19, who lived on nearby Monet Drive in the same development. The homeowner said he saw the break-ins in progress, got a gun and went outside. He told police he tried to hold Sternitzky until officers got there but Sternitzky tried to attack him. Police said the homeowner fired one shot, hitting Sternitzky in the chest. Police said the mortally wounded man ran around the corner of the building before he collapsed and died.


An Australian absurdity: "A man has been charged after allegedly firing a shot through the front door of his home in southwest Victoria to scare off intruders. Police said the man, 43, fired one shot from a rifle through the front door of the home in McNeil Avenue, Geelong East, about 10pm (AEST) last night. Would-be intruders had allegedly thrown rocks through the front window and cut the home's power supply before trying to jemmy open the front door. They fled after the man, who was inside with a woman and young girl, allegedly fired the shot. Police recovered the rifle and charged the man with conduct endangering life and firearm offences. He has been bailed to appear at the Geelong Magistrates Court on August 9."

South Carolina homeowner shot man during robbery: "Deputies say a Graniteville homeowner responded to the attempted theft of an all-terrain vehicle with gunshots. Officials say Leonel T. Sanchez, 26, shot Jack H. Cooper, 18, as Cooper was trying to steal the ATV from the Bettis Academy Road home on Saturday morning. At 1:15am, a motorist found Cooper lying on Bettis Academy Road, and gave him a ride to a convenience store, where deputies met Cooper. Aiken County Emergency Medical Services then transported Cooper to the Medical College of Georgia, in Augusta. He will be charged with attempted grand larceny and possession of a firearm under 21. An investigation also led to the arrest of Clarence W. Oglesby IV, 22. He's charged with attempted grand larceny. A 16-year-old juvenile was released to relatives. The homeowner won't be charged."


Texas robbery goes wrong; suspect shot repeatedly by store employee : "A convenience store employee shot one suspect multiple times during an attempted robbery in Port Arthur Sunday night. Port Arthur Police responded to a possible shooting at the Stop & Drive at 2500 Gulfway Dr. in Port Arthur at around 10 p.m. Sunday night. When they arrived, police found EMS and Fire Department personnel treating a wounded man in front of the business. Witnesses told police the suspect went into the store and demanded money from the clerk at the counter. A second store employee saw what was happening and retrieved a gun from somewhere in the store. The second employee opened fire on the robbery suspect, striking him several time. The suspect reportedly attempted to flee the store and collapsed just outside the door. At the last report, the suspect was listed in critical condition at a Beaumont hospital. The Port Arthur Police Department’s Major Crime Team continues to investigate the incident."


Florida man Not Guilty In October Jeep Shooting: "A jury ruled Monday that a Westgate man who shot into a Jeep, killing two men and injuring another, was acting in self-defense. After a six-day trial, the jury found Norman Borden not guilty of charges that included two counts of first-degree murder, one count of attempted murder and one count of shooting into an occupied vehicle. Borden shot at three men who were in the Jeep in October 2006. The shooting happened after the group confronted Borden as he walked his dogs. Christopher Araujo and Saul Trejo were killed in the shooting. The third passenger, Juan Mendez, was injured. Borden's defense argued he fired the shots because he feared for his life. Borden claims the three men had tried to run him over in the Jeep. But the prosecution said though Borden's first shots were in self-defense, he committed murder when he stepped in front of the Jeep and fired more rounds at the vehicle."

Louisiana burglar shot: "A morning robbery turned into a shooting in Crowley. Police say it happened at about 9:30 Friday morning when someone tried to rob a house on the 300 block of Ross Avenue. Cops say when the homeowners realized the house was being robbed; they tried to fight off the burglar. When that didn't work he shot him. Police say they've turned over their report to the district attorney, but don't think the homeowner will face charges."


ID: Deja vu all over again At Red's: "Red's Trading Post owner Ryan Horsley says agents from the BATFE paid him another visit yesterday. Agents last visited the store on May 23rd. That visit resulted in the alleged discovery of three paperwork infractions. Horsley said this visit was more of the same. During the May 23rd visit a Red's employee transcribed alleged comments of one agent. Horsley says supervisor Lori Young told the employee that they would 'be back again and again.' The latest inspection by the BATFE comes on the heels of last week's showing of the anti BATFE documentary, 'The Gang.'"


North Carolina: Intruder shot: "An intruder was shot early today after entering a home at 327 Vickery Drive in northeast Charlotte, according to Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police. Investigators say a burglary suspect, whose name was not released, was taken to Carolinas Medical Center with non-life threatening injuries. The man was shot after he forced his way into the home on Vickery Drive shortly after 2 a.m., investigators say. Charges have not yet been filed in the case, officials said."

Florida intruders: One shot and killed: "Polk County Deputies spent the early morning hours on the scene of a deadly home invasion in the Lakeland area. Deputies tell us around 9 p.m. Friday evening two gunman broke into an apartment on 534 Timberlane demanding jewelry and money. The man who lives in the apartment shot one of the suspects. James McArthur Johnson, Jr., who has a long criminal record, was pronounced dead at the scene. The other suspect who fled was identified as Elvin Tolliver. Deputies say Tolliver turned himself in this evening after seeing his face on news reports. He's charged with murder".


Pennsylvania: Dying ranger kills assailant: "Shot once in the chest during an argument at his sister's North Side home early yesterday, a former Army Ranger pulled his own gun and killed his assailant before dying of his wound, police said. "You've got a murder and a justifiable homicide, is what it looks like," said Lt. Dan Hermann of the major crimes unit. Killed in the exchange of gunfire were Gregory Grabowski, 29, a former Ranger from the North Side, and Timothy Beaman, 23, of Woods Run. Police responding to a report of shots fired at 2:39 a.m. at 25311/2 N. Charles St. found a bloody scene, with Mr. Grabowski lying just inside the front door and Mr. Beaman on the sidewalk at the bottom of the steps leading to the house. The two lay mortally wounded about eight feet from each other, remnants of their blood stains still visible after attempts to clean it up. The fight was apparently over noise after Mr. Beaman, along with two friends, showed up at the house, which is rented to Mr. Grabowski's sister. Mr. Beaman is the father of the tenant's child, police said. Mr. Beaman is also the father of another child whose mother lives in the row house. Angered by noise, Mr. Grabowski confronted the men in the kitchen, saying he had to get up for work in the morning, said Lt. Hermann. When Mr. Grabowski asked them to leave, an argument broke out, according to three witnesses. Mr. Beaman pulled a gun and shot Mr. Grabowski once in the chest. Although wounded, Mr. Grabowski pulled a .357-caliber pistol and shot Mr. Beaman twice in the chest. Mr. Beaman and his two friends ran for the door with Mr. Grabowski in pursuit until he collapsed at the front door. According to Allegheny County court records, both men were awaiting trial in separate cases. Mr. Grabowski was charged May 19 with forgery, theft by deception, receiving stolen property and acquisition by misrepresentation after being accused of passing a forged prescription at Giant Eagle. Mr. Beaman was awaiting trial on charges of illegal gun possession, receiving stolen property and other counts."


Guns, tears, tragedy and change: "He said he saw the men coming up the stairs with guns in hand but he couldn't do anything to stop them. So he quickly gathered his family and locked them in the master bedroom. He said they found them hiding there in less than a minute. ... [T]hey all were immediately tied up. Then they started leisurely burglarizing the home, seemingly in no hurry whatsoever. After they bagged-up everything they deemed worthwhile, things really got bad. They took turns raping both daughters in front of him and his wife. ... The father kept repeating that he just couldn't do anything to help them. Nervously he asked, 'Officer, please tell me, if I would have had a gun do you think I could have helped my family?'"

NY: Ex-cop shoots attacker while serving divorce papers: "A retired Kent police officer who was serving legal papers to a town man in a divorce proceeding shot the man in the chest twice yesterday after the man attacked him with a police baton, state police said. Officers went about 4:30 p.m. to 33 Lincoln Road, where 66-year-old Dennis Illuminate had gone to serve divorce papers on Douglas Greenwich, said Capt. Keith Corlett of the state police. Greenwich, 52, who was at the house to pick up a dresser, became enraged at the sight of Illuminate, who had served him with legal papers on two previous occasions, Corlett said. Illuminate, who is also a former Kent councilman, fired his licensed .25-caliber handgun, striking Greenwich in the upper torso, but the men continued to struggle, Corlett said. Illuminate fired a second round, which also struck Greenwich in the chest, he said."




FL: Home invader gets a surprising welcome: "Jeremiah Swain probably thought he had it made early Thursday when he broke into a Coconut Grove home and found a man in a wheelchair inside. What Swain didn't know: The disabled man had three houseguests.As Swain tried to steal Edward Wynn's belongings, the houseguests swung into action, authorities said. They overcame the would-be robber, nabbed his blue steel revolver and held him until police came."


Why did it have to be ... guns?: "Over the past 30 years, I've been paid to write almost two million words, every one of which, sooner or later, came back to the issue of guns and gun-ownership. Naturally, I've thought about the issue a lot, and it has always determined the way I vote. People accuse me of being a single-issue writer, a single-issue thinker, and a single-issue voter, but it isn't true. What I've chosen, in a world where there's never enough time and energy, is to focus on the one political issue which most clearly and unmistakably demonstrates what any politician -- or political philosophy -- is made of, right down to the creamy liquid center."

Florida: Be prepared! "A home invasion suspect was killed and another injured early Thursday when victims scattered during the break-in, found stashed weapons and attacked, according to police. Orange County investigators said at least three people burst into a home located at 2672 Muscatello Street in the Hunter's Creek neighborhood early Thursday, fired a shot into the air and screamed, "We mean business." Deputies said the victims scattered to safe places in the home where they knew that they had weapons stashed and fought back, shooting one man and stabbing another. Officers said the victims seemingly did what they had to do during the crime. "All that we know for sure is that we have one black male suspect that has been shot and killed and one man who's been stabbed and fled the residence," Orange County sheriff's Cmdr. Tom Cockriel said. "(They) defended themselves. That's very possible that's what this turned out to be." One of the victims was hit in the head with a pistol, but no others were injured during the incident."


OH: Woman charged over shooting: "A Cincinnati woman is charged with felonious assault after police said she shot a man who came to her home. In court Wednesday, officials said that Janice Young had a protection order against Eugene Vassar. On Tuesday, officials said, Vassar came to Young's home on Beech Street. At some point, police said, Young pulled out a .38-caliber revolver and fired twice, hitting Vassar both times. She is being held on $10,000 bond." [Comment: Just great. She has a useless protective order against this guy, she defends herself, and SHE gets charged]


The Second Amendment and mental disorders: "Mainstream media made quite a 'thing' of the fact that this legislation was passed with the help of the National Rifle Association. Wayne LaPierre was shown, front and center, on CBS being interviewed about this new legislation which he deemed good for 'law-abiding citizens.' Really? In the aftermath of the President's New Freedom Commission on Mental Health, a move is afoot nationwide to screen every man, woman and child for mental health. Ads abound on television encouraging people to be screened. Articles in parenting magazines advocate mental health screening and prevention to unwitting parents. Mike Wallace tells us to get help for depression, we won't be sorry. "

Guns UNbanned in the Philippines: "I RECEIVED lots of calls and e-mails from people over the weekend, asking about the gun ban and I am quite happy to reply that, yes folks, that utterly useless prohibition that bothered only the lawful is finally out the window. While the Commission on Elections (Comelec) has yet to issue a definitive statement—they are all probably busy with Sulu and Basilan—Comelec Resolution 7764-A did say that the ban covered only the election period between Jan. 14 to June 13, 2007. Thus, provided you get your respective transport permits from the PNP, all roads can lead to the firing range if you choose to. The Philippine Practical Shooting Association (PPSA), which by the way had its website redesigned recently, met the open season with a Level 2 match at the SEB Firing Range in Fort Bonifacio last Friday. The event was dubbed the Philippine Army Cub and sponsored by the Straight Shooters Club."


Florida: After Attack by 3 Dogs, Man Opens Fire: "Three dogs attacked Mauricio Garcia when he was walking near his home at 9343 SW 4th Lane, in Doral, late Wednesday morning. He pulled out a gun and shot one of them to death. He was scared, but when CBS4 later caught up with him, he said jokingly, "I'm alive". CBS Chopper4 flew over the scene soon after the incident happened, and the 74-year-old Garcia could be seen sitting down, the pants covering his left leg were torn. A woman was handing water to him. "I heard it," said neighbor Alice Villa. "He pulled out a gun and shot the dog right there." Miami-Dade officials said the three dogs belonged to a neighbor who others in the community said "is a nice guy", and no charges will be pressed against him. The dogs are miniature schnauzers, which can be trained to be aggressive, and some confirmed the dogs have a history of biting. Garcia, on the other hand is doing well, and no charges will be filed against him. He has a concealed weapon's permit."


Nebraska burglar foiled by man with B.B. gun: "An armed teenager was held at B.B.-gunpoint by the man he allegedly was trying to steal from at 23rd and Dudley streets early Wednesday. The resident of the home told police he was sleeping, when a noise startled him. He grabbed a B.B. gun in his room and went to investigate, then found a person he did not know in his hallway. The man was able to hold the suspected burglar until police arrived at the scene, Lincoln Police Officer Katherine Finnell said. Police arrested a 16-year-old on suspicion of burglary, and said they found a loaded .22-caliber pistol in his shoe. The teenager was taken to the Youth Detention Center."

NICS update proposal should offer more for gun owners: "A proposal that would reportedly update and strengthen the National Instant Check System (NICS) may not go far enough to protect the rights of American gun owners while apparently making it easier to prevent mentally ill persons from legally buying guns at retail outlets, the Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms (CCRKBA) said today. One tenet of the contemplated 'compromise' legislation, noted CCRKBA Chairman Alan Gottlieb, would reportedly allow persons whose names are in the NICS database for minor infractions that should not be disqualifiers to petition the states to have those entries removed."


Florida: Armed man fends off robbers: "An Orlando man with a concealed-weapons permit successfully defended himself early Sunday against two armed robbers. Confronted outside Metro Place Apartments, the gun owner pushed aside a female acquaintance and drew his 9 mm pistol, according to Orlando police. The couple then fled. Another tenant heard the commotion and called 911 about 3:20 a.m. to report seeing two masked men armed with shotguns flee the area, reports show."


Florida Victim Wrestles Gun Away From Would-Be Carjacker: "It was a close call for an Orange County man who was targeted by a would-be carjacker. Instead of handing over his wallet and keys, he fought back and wrestled away a gun from the bad guy on Orange Blossom Trail. A swarm of patrol cars surrounded the 7-Eleven near downtown Orlando in response to a signal 43; officer needs help. "It could have been disastrous, but fortunately the officer was able to ascertain who the victim was. The victim remained calm and put the gun down," said Lt. Sue Brown of the Orlando Police Department. Around 2:00am Tuesday, a customer was confronted by a man with a gun who tried to steal his money and his car. But the victim didn't go down without a fight. Police said somehow he was able to take the .40 caliber gun away from his assailant. During the struggle, the gun went off, but no one was hurt. "I'm not sure I recommend this, but when you have a gun to your face you're gonna react. You're gonna do what you need to do to protect yourself. So he was able to struggle with the guy and disarm him," Brown said. The unidentified attacker ran off empty handed. Police said they will review surveillance video from the convenience store and a business across the street to see if they can get a good description of him. The gun was being fingerprinted to see if a possible match could be made to identify the attacker".

Courageous Louisiana teen turns tables, shoots robber after taking away gun: "A 44-year-old man who was trying to rob a teenager and his mother in a fast food drive thru was shot several times after the teen grabbed the gun from him and fired back, according to Jefferson Parish Sheriff Harry Lee. The incident occurred around 1:30 a.m. at the Arby’s drive-thru located at 3845 Veterans Blvd. in Metairie. According to Lee, the victims were in their car waiting to place an order when 44-year-old Carl Chestnut of Kenner walked up to the vehicle and pointed a gun at them. Lee said Chestnut tried to get into the car and was attempting to pull out the 53-year-old mother when the teen fought with him over the weapon, grabbed it away and then fired several times, striking Chestnut. Chestnut was hit in the head and torso, but the injuries aren’t believed to be fatal."


Tennessee: Robbery plan comes unstuck: "Monday morning police are looking for one of the teens involved in a botched robbery. Three teenagers plotted to rob a home of a 16-year-old peer and his mother. According to police, one of the teenagers asked to stay the night with the victims, saying that he was having problems at home. The mother and her son agreed to let the young man spend the night. Once invited into the home the teen left the front door unlocked, and in the middle of the night two other teens barged in with guns. They were armed with a shotgun and pistol. While demanding money, the parent sneaked away to call the police, and she also called a neighbor. The neighbor, who had his own gun, came over and held the teenagers at gun point until police arrived. The teen staying with the victims also had gun, but did not participate in robbery. Two of the teenagers are in custody as of Monday morning, but one got away."


Florida: Another aggressive "lover" shot: "Police are still trying to determine if a Jacksonville man should be charged with murder following a shooting in Murray Hill Sunday night. It happened in the 3600 block of Dellwood Avenue. A man, who police say was terrorizing his girlfriend, was shot and killed on the porch of a house. It all started Sunday afternoon after a man and woman, believed to be boyfriend and girlfriend, got into an argument. The woman filed a domestic violence-related report against the man but he continued threatening her. He showed up at the home on Dellwood Avenue. Police say the homeowner came outside on the porch and shot the man. "Basically, now we're just interviewing the witness and the person who did the shooting. The state attorney is on the scene and we're going to determine if this was a justifiable homicide at this point," said Sgt. Derrick Lewis, Jacksonville Sheriff's Office. At this time, police believe the homeowner was acting in self defense. They have not made any arrests and have not said if any charges will be filed.

Washington State driver killed while trying to run man down: "Allan Turnipseed carries a gun with him at all times. But he'd never had to use it until Thursday. He says his life, and the lives of his family, were in danger. Thursday afternoon's shooting was a small incident that spiraled out of control. That is the story from Turnipseed, the man accused of shooting 24-year-old Joshua Smith. Turnipseed has not been jailed and is currently a free man. He declined to go on camera, but spoke from his home. He says on Wednesday evening, he witnessed two young men driving down 8th Avenue, one of them tossing a beer can out the window. He confronted the pair, and as he went to call police, they left. On Thursday, Turnipseed says he was driving down Ferrall when he saw the same Mazda, with the same men inside and Smith driving. Sensing trouble, Turnipseed says he moved his car to block the young men from coming near his home. He then alleges Smith drove up to the car and said he wanted to take a crowbar to his face, then took a crowbar out and began making threats. Turnipseed says he pulled his .380-caliber gun and tried to make a citizen's arrest. He then stood in front of Smith's car to keep them from leaving. Seconds later, Smith allegedly tried to run Turnipseed over. Turnipseed was hit, and as he clung onto the hood, fired two shots into the car. Turnipseed believes the men were drinking, and adds that he'll accept any charges that may come. Police say it is illegal to make a citizen's arrest in Washington. The shooting is still under investigation.


Oklahoma woman shot ex-husband in self-defense: "The Sallisaw woman who shot and killed her ex-husband early Friday morning after he broke into her home and assaulted the woman and her boyfriend with a bat may have thwarted her ex's alleged plans to kill her after police discovered that the man allegedly brought a bag of butcher knives into the woman's home. According to Sallisaw police, the man, Robert Wolfe, 49, broke into his ex-wife's home, located at 603 E. Zulkey in Sallisaw, between 1 and 1:35 a.m., knocking glass out of the back door. Wolfe's 33-year-old ex-wife, Kimberly Wolfe, and her boyfriend, Timothy Sizemore, were asleep in bed when Robert Wolfe allegedly began hitting the two with a baseball bat that he was swinging. Kimberly Wolfe retrieved her gun and fired three shots, two of which went through the bedroom wall and one which fatally wounded Robert Wolfe, police said. Sallisaw Police Chief Shaloa Edwards said they later discovered a bag of Dexter butcher knives that Robert Wolfe allegedly carried into the home. Edwards speculated that Robert Wolfe had planned to first torture his ex-wife before killing her."


New York: Black bear killed by homeowner: "A 29-year-old Town of Conklin man shot and killed a black bear that had been roaming through the Pride Manor Mobile Park neighborhood on Conklin Road in the Town of Conklin, according to Broome County Sheriff’s Deputy Andrew Eggleston. The man, fearing for the welfare of his children, shot the bear before law enforcement and environmental protection officers reached the scene, Eggleston said. The incident occurred around 9:55 p.m. Monday, according to a sheriff’s office report. Shane M. Wood told officers he got his shotgun and shot the bear when it was across the road from his driveway and turned toward him."

Bloomberg thinks NYC is America

It started as a small group of American mayors worried about gun violence. It has since grown into a vociferous national organisation that has challenged the powerful US gun lobby and boosted speculation about the presidential prospects of Michael Bloomberg, the mayor of New York.

The latest recruit to Bloomberg's coalition of Mayors Against Illegal Guns is Patricia Tucker, the widow of a North Carolina sheriff who was shot in the face by a teenager on probation for an earlier offence. He was found to have bought a shotgun from a dealer who allegedly should have refused the sale.

Tucker appeared last week in a new advertising campaign aimed at Congressional allies of the National Rifle Association, the defender of American gunowners' rights. Bloomberg's assault on one of Washington's most powerful lobbying groups has marked him out as both a target for right-wing critics and as a bold, energetic campaigner whose immense personal wealth might enable him to side-step the traditional primary-filled path to the White House.

As the billionaire founder and majority owner of the Bloomberg media empire, the mayor is considering spending $1 billion of his personal fortune on an independent campaign in the 2008 White House race.

More here






Oregon Intruder Held At Gunpoint By Homeowner: "A Depoe Bay homeowner took matters into his own hands Friday morning when he found an intruder in his house. Lincoln County Sheriff''s deputies responded to a home on Breeze Street shortly after 1:30 a.m. Friday after the homeowner called police to report that he was holding a suspected intruder at gunpoint. The homeowner told police he saw the man trespassing in the back yard and that the man entered his home without permission. There were three people inside the home, one of which was a small child. Authorities took 25-year-old Justin James of Portland into custody on charges of first- and second-degree criminal trespassing. Stewart is being held in the Lincoln County Jail on $10,000 bail."


Arizona homeowner confronts burglar: "A man is in custody after a homeowner found a suspected burglar inside his house near 16th Street and Maryland Avenue Wednesday morning. A neighbor became suspicious when he saw a man walking around his neighbor's property. The neighbor called the property owner, who returned home armed with a gun. The homeowner confronted the suspected burglar, whom he let go. Police say the homeowner did the right thing. The homeowner was able to provide a vehicle description and the suspect was arrested in a stolen car shortly after the incident."

California driver who struck home was looking for his wife: "The man who shot and killed a driver who moments earlier intentionally rammed a car through his North Des Moines Road home late Wednesday feared for his life and may have acted in self-defense, a San Joaquin County sheriff's official said. Detectives believe that the driver, Ravi Batuk Vora, 39, of Burbank, was in a rage and was convinced his wife was hiding inside the Acampo resident's house before smashing his car through the home at about 9 p.m., Deputy Les Garcia, a sheriff's spokesman, said Thursday. But Vora already had been exhibiting bizarre behavior before his confrontation with the homeowner, Garcia said. As Vora searched for his wife, he saw a person arriving at a house in the 21000 block of North Des Moines Road and pulled his car up to the home, Garcia said. Vora confronted the homeowner and claimed his wife was inside. Vora left the man's house and returned three times to argue with the homeowner, Garcia said. As Vora stood outside, banging on the door and yelling, the homeowner grabbed a gun and called 911. Vora then returned to his car, drove away, and moments later slammed his car through the front entrance of the house, Garcia said. A dog inside the home was struck by the car and killed, Garcia said. Inside the house, Vora got out of his car and "advanced toward" the homeowner, who fired one shot and struck Vora in the upper body, Garcia said. Vora died at the scene.



Montana woman shooter gets no jail time: "A North Fork woman who shot her husband to death will serve no jail time. In a deal worked out between County Attorney Ed Corrigan and defense attorneys Patrick Sherlock and Sean Hinchey, District Court Judge Kitty Curtis sentenced Rebecca Braunig-Haag to a 10-year suspended sentence with 10 years probation Thursday. Originally charged with deliberate homicide, she pleaded “no contest” to an amended charge of negligent homicide in April. “She does have a claim for self-defense,” Corrigan said. “She, quite frankly, is unlikely to incur a further criminal history. I do believe the conviction for negligent homicide holds her accountable.” In a statement to the judge, Braunig-Haag said she was sorry and that she loved her husband. “I was so scared I picked up the gun to keep him from killing us,” she said. “More than anything, I didn’t want to shoot him.” Braunig-Haag was 51 at the time she shot her husband, Von Stanley Haag, 60, in the chest with a .44 caliber Magnum. She told investigators he had threatened to burn down their home if she didn’t accompany him on a trip to Texas to attend his father’s funeral. The Nov. 7, 2005, argument over whether or not to attend the funeral escalated to the point where Braunig-Haag said she feared her husband would burn the house down. He threatened her and poured gasoline throughout the house, she told police. That’s when she shot him and called neighbors for help, reports said."


California man shot in home invasion try is arrested: "Sheriff's deputies arrested a man shot by a woman late Wednesday after he allegedly entered her house in a botched home invasion, officials said. Authorities said Andrice Robinson, 21, of Fontana, is being treated in custody after being shot several times in the abdomen. He and one or two accomplices allegedly walked into a home in the 400 block of Charro Court at about 9 p.m. looking for drugs. "The victims had never seen them before," said sheriff's Sgt. Charles Jurcak. "They probably picked the wrong house." Jurcak said the men "entered the location, confronted the husband and demanded to know where the pot was." When the middle-aged couple told the suspects they didn't know anything about marijuana, the invaders began to beat them, he said. While the men beat her husband, authorities said the wife went for the couple's gun hidden in the bedroom. When Robinson confronted her in the hallway of the home, Jurcak said, "she fired the weapon several times, striking him in the body." The suspects fled, but the wounded man was found by deputies nearby, lying on the ground. Authorities said the incident is still under investigation and they are still seeking the other suspects, described only as African-American males."