Man Fatally Shoots Alleged Intruder Attempting To Break Into His House, Sheriff Says ‘Clear Case Of Self-Defense’

Missouri officials say a homeowner fatally shot an alleged intruder sporting brass knuckles in a “clear case of self-defense.”

The Scott County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) said in a Facebook post Friday they responded to an overnight home invasion and shooting where deputies discovered the homeowner, Austin Glastetter, shot and killed an alleged intruder. The intruder, later identified as 31-year-old John Fisher, was struck by four shots, officials said.

“Preliminary reports indicate that the homeowner was alerted to the intrusion and acted to protect themselves,” the SCSO said.

Fisher was pronounced dead at the scene. (RELATED: Mother Accidentally Shoots Son Thinking He Was Home Intruder, Police Say)

Officials said in an updated release issued Friday night that Fisher arrived at Glastetter’s home to find his wife, who had been visiting Glastetter. When Fisher arrived, he “began forcefully striking the front door while wearing brass knuckles.”

“His actions caused structural damage to the door, including breaking out the glass to try and gain entry,” the SCSO said.

Glastetter told the man to leave and warned Fisher that he was armed.

“Mr. Fisher continued attempting to force entry into the home, reportedly stating, ‘You’ll have to kill me,’” the sheriff’s office said.

Glastetter fired six shots total out of fear for his life and the safety of the others inside the home. He immediately called 911 to report the shooting and cooperated with authorities, the SCSO added.

“After a thorough review of the evidence and circumstances, investigators determined that Mr. Glastetter acted in self-defense in accordance with Missouri Revised Statutes Section 563.031, which governs the justifiable use of force in defense of persons,” the press release stated.

“The safety and protection of one’s home is a fundamental right,” the SCSO stated. “This appears to be a tragic but clear case of self-defense.”