MANDEVILLE, LA — A homeowner in Mandeville defended himself and another homeowner during a violent encounter with an intruder on the morning of Monday, July 29. The incident occurred around 9:00 AM at a residence on the 1200 block of Dove Park Road, resulting in the shooting and subsequent arrest of the intruder.

According to the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office (STPSO), deputies were dispatched to the scene after receiving reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, they found Careyunius Smith, a man from the Slidell area, suffering from a gunshot wound to the abdomen. Deputies rendered aid until emergency medical services arrived. Smith was transported to a local hospital, where he underwent surgery for non-life-threatening injuries and is currently in stable condition.

The investigation conducted by the STPSO Major Crimes Unit revealed that Smith was trespassing on the property and was not known to the homeowners. The situation escalated when the first homeowner encountered Smith near the garage. Smith allegedly attacked the homeowner, engaging in a physical struggle. The homeowner called for assistance, prompting a second homeowner to come outside and assess the situation.

Despite the homeowners’ attempts to de-escalate the confrontation, Smith continued his aggressive behavior. The second homeowner then retreated into the house, retrieved a firearm, and returned to the scene. When Smith charged toward the armed homeowner, the latter, fearing for his life and the safety of the other homeowner, discharged the firearm, striking Smith in the abdomen. The homeowners immediately contacted 911 to report the incident and request medical assistance.

Following the incident, authorities determined that the shooting was an act of self-defense. Careyunius Smith has been charged with Criminal Trespassing, Attempted Simple Kidnapping, Simple Battery, and Simple Assault. Upon his release from the hospital, he will be booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Facility.

Sheriff Randy Smith expressed gratitude to the deputies and detectives who responded to the incident and handled the investigation. “I want to thank the patrol deputies who responded to the initial call and the detectives with our Major Crimes Division who worked tirelessly throughout this investigation,” Sheriff Smith stated.

In this situation, the homeowners acted within their rights to defend themselves. When confronted with a potentially dangerous intruder, it is crucial to prioritize personal safety and the safety of others. This incident highlights the importance of being prepared and having a plan in place for such emergencies.