A man in Escambia County was shot in self-defense after allegedly attacking an elderly couple inside their home. Authorities determined the shooting was justified, and the suspect is now in custody without bond.

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ESCAMBIA COUNTY, FL (2-minute read) — A violent confrontation in a Florida home ended with a self-defense shooting after a 35-year-old man allegedly assaulted an elderly couple Sunday morning in Escambia County. Deputies with the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of gunfire on Rebel Drive and found Daniel Sonier suffering from a gunshot wound.

Authorities say Sonier was known to the elderly victims and had entered their home before the situation escalated into violence. During the investigation, deputies confirmed that Sonier was the primary aggressor in what they labeled a domestic violence incident involving battery on an elderly person.

Self-Defense Firearm Use in a Home Setting

Faced with a life-threatening situation, one of the elderly residents used a firearm to stop the assault. Law enforcement officials determined the shooting to be an act of self-defense, a legal right under Florida’s self-defense and Castle Doctrine laws. These laws allow individuals to protect themselves with force—including deadly force—when they are threatened inside their own home, and no duty to retreat exists.

Sonier was taken to a local hospital for treatment, then remotely booked on charges of domestic violence and battery on an elderly person—a felony offense in Florida due to the victim’s age. He is currently being held at the Escambia County Jail without bond.

Safety Tip: Know your state’s self-defense and firearm storage laws—especially if you live with or care for elderly individuals who may be more vulnerable. Keeping a securely stored, accessible firearm and having a plan in place can make all the difference during an emergency.