Authorities in Gwinnett County, Georgia, confirmed that an alleged burglar was shot and killed early Monday morning after forcing his way into a family’s home.
The incident occurred shortly after 4:30 a.m. when the man broke into the residence by throwing a propane tank through a back window.
Local outlet WSB-TV2 reported that the suspect entered the home and began removing his clothing while causing damage inside the residence.
A family member present during the break-in described the intruder’s behavior. “He was in there getting naked, taking his clothes off, smashing stuff,” the family member said.
The Gwinnett County Police Department stated that officers were dispatched to the home following reports of a break-in.
Upon arrival, officers discovered that the suspect had been shot.
Atlanta News First reported that surveillance footage from inside the living room appeared to show the man walking around, cursing, and throwing items in the kitchen before being confronted and shot by the homeowner.
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The identity of the suspect has not yet been released.
Authorities confirmed that his name is being withheld pending notification of his next of kin.
The family involved in the incident told investigators that the man was a complete stranger to them.
Law enforcement officials remained at the scene for several hours Monday morning to collect evidence and review surveillance footage from the home.
Police said the investigation is ongoing and that the homeowner has been cooperating fully with authorities.
Incidents of home intrusions in Gwinnett County have prompted repeated reminders from law enforcement about the dangers homeowners face when confronted with unexpected intruders.
While Georgia law provides legal protections for residents who defend themselves in their homes, investigators will continue to examine the facts of the case before releasing further details.
Neighbors reported hearing noise in the early morning hours and later saw multiple patrol cars and investigators outside the home.
One neighbor told reporters that the situation was alarming but praised the family for protecting themselves.
The case adds to a series of recent break-in incidents across the Atlanta metropolitan area.
Authorities emphasized that each case is unique and that their findings in Monday’s shooting will be based strictly on the evidence collected at the scene.
Police have not released details on the number of shots fired or the type of firearm used.
As of Monday evening, the investigation remained active, with detectives working to piece together the sequence of events that led to the fatal shooting.
Officials reiterated that the family did not know the intruder and had no prior connection to him.
Authorities are expected to release the suspect’s identity once next of kin notifications are complete.