A home invasion in Dearborn Heights, MI, escalated into a dramatic shootout, leaving both the homeowner and one of the suspects injured. Security footage captured the intense exchange of gunfire as Benjamin Nevers defended his home.

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DEARBORN HEIGHTS, MI (3-minute read) — A terrifying home invasion in Dearborn Heights over the weekend led to a shootout, leaving both the homeowner and the suspect injured. The intense gunfight was caught on security cameras, showing the moment Benjamin Nevers defended his home against armed intruders.

Nevers, who suffered a shattered foot and a gunshot wound to the back, recalled the harrowing experience. His girlfriend, who was in bed behind him, was also struck by a bullet, which traveled through her body and remains lodged in her chest. Doctors have deemed it too dangerous to remove at this time.

Nevers and a friend had just returned from a vacation in the Bahamas when two suspects broke into the home through a kitchen window. Security footage revealed the intruders moving through the house before one of them held Nevers’ friend at gunpoint in the living room.

Waking up to the intrusion, Nevers acted quickly. “I grabbed my gun, cocked it, and waited. I knew they were going to come to my room,” he said. When the armed suspect entered, gunfire erupted. Surveillance footage captured Nevers shooting at the intruder while taking hits himself. The injured suspect was later seen on camera struggling to flee.

Police arrested Phillip Price, the alleged gunman, who now faces a 21-count indictment, including charges of assault with intent to murder and armed robbery.

Despite his injuries, Nevers remains grateful that everyone survived. “I’m just happy everybody is alive and well. I’m even kind of glad the guy who shot me is still alive too. I don’t want to kill anybody,” he said.

In the heat of a life-threatening situation, proper firearm handling can make a critical difference. From the footage, it appears that Nevers’ grip on his firearm may not have been optimal, which could have affected his accuracy and control during the exchange of gunfire. In high-stress situations, an improper grip can lead to missed shots, reduced recoil management, and even malfunctions.

This highlights the importance of regular training, including practicing a firm, consistent grip and engaging in scenario-based drills that simulate real-world encounters. Defensive shooting courses and stress-induced training can help ensure that when split-second decisions matter most, a shooter maintains control and effectiveness while minimizing risks to themselves and others.

Safety Tip: Always have a home defense plan in place, including secure firearm storage, quick access to self-defense tools, and awareness of safe shooting angles to avoid unintended injuries to family members.