Critical Lessons from a Homeowner’s Costly Mistake
by Jeff Young
Adapted from insights shared by John Farnam, an expert in defensive tactics.
“Knowledge defeats fear.
Preparation defeats failure.
Discipline defeats panic.”
– Michael Lang
On February 6, 2024, a homeowner’s encounter with an unexpected visitor turned into a legal nightmare, offering stark lessons for anyone who owns a firearm for self-defense. Here’s what happened and the critical takeaways to protect yourself and your loved ones.
The Incident: A Cascade of Errors
One afternoon, a homeowner answered his front doorbell to find a slightly familiar person requesting entry. Despite reservations, he opened the door. The visitor, visibly agitated, forced his way inside, sparking a heated argument. When the homeowner demanded the intruder leave, the situation escalated into a physical altercation.
The homeowner retreated to a bedroom, retrieved a loaded .357 Magnum revolver (loaded with FMJ “hardball” ammunition), and confronted the intruder at gunpoint, demanding he leave. In a critical error, the homeowner cocked the revolver’s hammer. Moments later, the gun discharged unintentionally, striking the intruder in the abdomen. The bullet passed through the intruder and several walls, fortunately causing no additional injuries.
The intruder fled, called the police, and survived the non-fatal wound. The homeowner admitted to police that the shot was accidental. Despite the intruder’s aggressive behavior, the homeowner was arrested and charged with attempted murder by a prosecutor known for anti-gun biases. The intruder, meanwhile, has faced no charges to date, and the case remains active.
Key Lessons for Armed Citizens
This incident underscores several preventable mistakes. Here’s what you need to know to avoid a similar fate:
1. Get Proper Training Owning a firearm for self-defense demands more than just knowing how to shoot. You must understand lethal-force laws and how to navigate the criminal justice system. The homeowner’s lack of training led to catastrophic errors, from poor gun handling to incriminating statements.
2. Secure Your Home and Screen Visitors
• Install robust locks on all exterior doors and keep them locked.
• Use a video doorbell (e.g., Ring) to communicate with visitors without opening the door.
• Politely dismiss uninvited solicitors, salespeople, or unfamiliar individuals remotely.
• Never open your door to anyone whose intentions you question, especially if multiple people are present.
• For “estranged” acquaintances (ex-spouses, former friends, or business partners), arrange meetings in neutral, public locations like restaurants—never invite them into your home. If someone enters your home and refuses to leave, call the police immediately rather than confronting them yourself.
3. Be the First to Call Police In any use-of-force incident, the person who contacts law enforcement first is often viewed as the “complainant” or victim. Act quickly to report the situation and establish your side of the story.
4. Know What to Say (and What Not to Say) Statements to police are recorded and can make or break your case. The homeowner’s admission that the shot was “accidental” eliminated any chance of claiming self-defense, as self-defense requires intentional action. Had the shot been intentional and justified, the outcome might have been different. Learn how to communicate effectively with law enforcement to protect your rights.
5. Choose Defensive Ammunition Wisely The homeowner’s use of FMJ “hardball” ammunition led to over-penetration, endangering others beyond the intruder. Select modern defensive rounds designed to expand and stay within the target, minimizing collateral damage.
6. Master Your Firearm Courts show no leniency for sloppy gun handling. Cocking the hammer unnecessarily and allowing an unintentional discharge were pivotal errors in this case. If you own a gun, you’re expected to handle it competently under pressure. Train regularly to ensure safe and effective use.
Final Thoughts
As Colin Powell said, “There are no ‘Secrets to Success.’ Success is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning from failure.” This homeowner’s ordeal is a harsh reminder that preparation and discipline are non-negotiable for armed citizens. By learning from others’ mistakes, you can avoid devastating consequences.
Stay trained, stay vigilant, and stay safe.
Lone Pine Tactical
