A couple in their 60's and their sons were home.
One of the sons had a high powered rifle and took on the would-be robbers.
One of them ended up dead after what police describe as a struggle and a lot of shooting.
"There is evidence inside the residence of several rounds that were fired and when I say evidence there is bullet holes in the walls and also casings," said Lt. Steven Sambar of the Los Angeles Police Department.
The dead suspect has been identified as 20-year old Alexander Neal of Compton. Police say the two other suspects took off in a silver sedan.
Detectives interviewed the residents but the district attorney's office will decide on any possible charges.
