93-year-old homeowner shoots, critically injures intruder in Moreno Valley, authorities say
MORENO VALLEY, Calif. (KABC) -- A 93-year-old homeowner took matters into his own hands when he shot and critically injured a suspect who authorities say broke into the home in Moreno Valley.
The incident happened in the 24300 block of Eucalyptus Avenue around 12:30 a.m. on Wednesday, according to the Riverside County Sheriff's Department. When deputies arrived, they found one person with a gunshot wound.
Investigators then determined that the homeowner was the one who opened fire.
A man whose wife is related to the homeowner told Eyewitness News the elderly man's property has been broken into a number of times. He identified the elderly man as Joe.
"He was tired because every time he calls the police, (they took) forever to come and assist him," said Oscar Malma. "He took the law into his own hands... He's been working all his life and whatever little things he has, he's (protecting)."
Malma said it's possible that Joe was targeted by the same culprits on several occasions.
"It happened once on Friday. On that bright day, they went (broke) into the house. And now this happens in the middle of the night. They were looking for him. He's an old, retired plumber. He has a lot of tools...he's a musician as well, so he's got a lot of musical instruments. Little by little, they've been ripping him off," Malma said.
Authorities have not confirmed how many reported break-ins there have been at that home.
Law enforcement officials were seen investigating a black Audi near the home, but they did not disclose who the vehicle belonged to. The vehicle was eventually loaded onto a flatbed and taken away.
The suspected intruder was taken to the hospital in critical condition.
Malma said the homeowner was taken to the police station for questioning. He said he doesn't believe Joe will be arrested, because "he was defending his property. That happened inside his house. So I don't think there's any reason for him to be arrested."
