VAN NUYS, CA — A Van Nuys homeowner successfully thwarted an attempted burglary at his residence Tuesday evening by firing a shot that sent four intruders fleeing. The incident occurred in the 14000 block of Calvert Street near Hazeltine Avenue around 9:45 p.m., as reported by NBC 4.

Local media reported that Los Angeles Police Department officers were called to the scene following reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, they were informed by the homeowner that he had encountered four men inside his home. In defense, the homeowner discharged one firearm shot towards the suspects, causing them to immediately vacate the premises.

Authorities have not confirmed whether any property was stolen during the incident, and thankfully, no injuries were reported. The investigation is ongoing, and officers are looking into the details surrounding the attempted burglary.

This incident highlights the effectiveness of California’s castle doctrine, which legally protects residents using force to defend themselves. This law was established to ensure homeowners could protect themselves without fear of legal repercussions, stemming historically from an unusual case where a burglar sued a homeowner after a household pet injured him during a break-in.