Sleeping Clerk Wakes Up, Shoots Armed Burglary Suspect Who Entered Business

A Seattle clerk used a firearm in self-defense to shoot a burglar armed with a knife during a break-in. The suspect was apprehended and taken to the hospital with serious injuries.

SEATTLE, WA (3-minute read) — A man who attempted to burglarize a Seattle business overnight ended up shot by a clerk who had been asleep at the time of the break-in, according to Seattle Police reports.

The clerk, armed and asleep inside the business, awoke to the sound of the burglary. Fearing for his safety and believing the suspect to be armed with a knife, the clerk discharged his firearm in self-defense, striking the suspect.

The suspect sustained significant injuries to his hand and left a noticeable blood trail as he fled the scene. Officers responding to the call located the suspect about a block away on Rainier Avenue, where they provided initial medical assistance for his gunshot wound before transporting him to Harborview Medical Center. The suspect was reported to be in serious condition and remains under arrest for burglary charges.

The armed clerk, who cooperated fully with the detectives, had his firearm recovered by the police as evidence. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, as authorities work to piece together all details surrounding the break-in and subsequent shooting.

Self-defense situations can escalate quickly, and it is crucial for firearm owners to be trained and prepared to use their firearms responsibly. This includes understanding the local laws regarding self-defense and the use of deadly force.

Safety Tip: Always store firearms securely and ensure they are only accessible to authorized individuals. Regularly practice safe handling and be aware of your local firearm laws.