FORT LAUDERDALE, FL — A homeowner defended himself early Saturday morning after an intruder broke into his residence and refused to leave, ultimately forcing the resident to fire in self-defense.

According to the local media, Fort Lauderdale Police responded to reports of a shooting at a home on the 2300 block of Northwest 13th Court around 3 a.m. Investigators determined that the homeowner had encountered a burglar inside the house and ordered him to leave. When the intruder refused to comply, the homeowner fired his firearm, striking the suspect.

Paramedics transported the wounded suspect to Broward Health Medical Center with injuries that were described as non-life-threatening. Authorities have not yet released the identities of those involved or confirmed whether the suspect will face charges.

Stand Your Ground and Home Defense

This case is a clear example of a homeowner legally using force to protect himself inside his own home. Florida law, under the Castle Doctrine and Stand Your Ground statutes, generally supports a person’s right to use force—including deadly force—against an intruder who unlawfully enters their dwelling and poses a threat.

In this situation, the homeowner gave a clear command for the intruder to leave. When the suspect refused, the homeowner justifiably used his firearm to stop the threat. This highlights the importance of being prepared to act decisively in a home invasion scenario. When someone unlawfully enters your home, the law presumes they intend to do harm, and homeowners have every right to defend themselves without hesitation.

Firearm owners should ensure they are familiar with their state’s self-defense laws and receive proper training to effectively protect themselves and their families.