Self-Defense Shooting Turns Deadly for Victim After Restraining Order Fails to Protect Her

SAN BERNADINO, CALIFORNIA – A woman was fatally shot by her ex-boyfriend after she first shot him in self-defense. The tragedy unfolded in a home where she lived with her children.

According to a press release by the San Bernardino Police Department, the incident occurred on the evening of April 1^st. Patricia Barragan, 30, and her children were in their home in the 1200 block of West Kendall Drive. Just after 9:30 p.m., her ex-boyfriend, Jorge Alberto Duran Garcia, 31, forced his way into her home.

Due to previous domestic violence, Barragan had an active temporary restraining order against Garcia. Upon his entry into the home, she shot him in self-defense. Unfortunately, Garcia was able to overpower her and gain control of her handgun, which he then used to shoot her.

Responding officers found both victims with gunshot wounds, and both were pronounced dead at the scene. According to police, the children were not physically hurt.

This incident demonstrates two important truths regarding domestic violence and self-defense firearms that bear learning and remembering.

First, restraining orders are useless in protecting potential victims. They are 8½” x 11” pieces of paper and are not a physical barrier between the two parties.

Secondly, having a firearm and being able to pull the trigger does not guarantee survival. Maintaining control of the gun is critical. If the victim can’t keep their gun in their hands, they are simply arming their aggressor.