LUCERNE VALLEY, CALIFORNIA – A female homeowner shot a man in self-defense after he forced his way into her home and threatened her life while armed with a hammer. The San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department was called to the home in the 36700 block of Foothill Road at 9:14 a.m. Friday.
The occupant told sheriff’s deputies that the suspect forced his way into her residence through a back door. The man was armed with a hammer and threatened to kill her. Obviously in fear for her life, the victim shot the intruder. He then left the home on foot and walked a short distance, where deputies found him lying on the side of Foothill Road.
The man, identified by authorities as 17-year-old Robert Garcia was airlifted to a trauma center for treatment of his injuries. His condition, and any charges that he may face, were not available at press time. The female victim was not injured in the incident. It is not known if the suspect and victim knew each other.
While California is largely regarded as being a very restrictive state with regards to gun ownership, its residents do have the benefit of “Castle Doctrine” laws which allow residents to use lethal force against unlawful intruders, with no duty to retreat before doing so. This woman, who had taken personal responsibility for her safety by having a firearm, was able to exercise her rights and save her own life in doing so.
