SAN ANTONIO, TX – In San Antonio, a noticeable increase in residents using firearms to defend themselves has been observed, as two separate incidents on Thursday morning demonstrated effective self-defense, according to local police.

The first incident occurred in an apartment in the 8700 block of Marbach. A resident confronted an intruder attempting to force entry into his home shortly after 7:30 a.m. The confrontation escalated when the intruder claimed to live there, leading to the resident shooting the intruder in the stomach. The injured intruder was later treated at a hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.

Hours earlier, a homeowner in the 400 block of General Kruger encountered two men allegedly stealing roofing materials from his driveway, a scene he witnessed via his surveillance cameras. This wasn’t the first time the suspects targeted his property; they had attempted theft previously. In defense, the homeowner confronted and shot both men, who were subsequently arrested and charged with theft. Authorities later deemed the homeowner’s actions justified, and he will not face charges.

These episodes are part of a broader trend in which San Antonio residents are increasingly resorting to firearms to prevent becoming victims of crime. Sgt. Andrew Valle noted a spike in such defensive actions but could not pinpoint a single cause for the increase.

Community reactions are mixed. Jermaine Nollie, a local resident who witnessed the aftermath of the Marbach shooting, expressed support for armed self-defense, citing community fears over rising crime. “We are in fear for our lives in this community,” Nollie said. “To defend yourself and defend your place that you’re living at, I don’t see where it’s wrong.”

However, Sgt. Valle recommends that, when possible, individuals should first call 911 for assistance before taking matters into their own hands.

This trend underscores the vital role firearms play in personal security and the fundamental right of homeowners to defend themselves against criminal actions. As these incidents continue, they affirm the effectiveness of armed self-defense, showcasing that responsible gun ownership is crucial in safeguarding individuals and their properties from criminal threats.