An elderly man in Winnebago County, Illinois, intervened in a violent domestic dispute, shooting a suspect in the buttocks to protect a woman from further harm. The suspect, Nathaniel Brooks, was arrested and charged with aggravated battery after being treated for his injuries.

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WINNEBAGO COUNTY, IL (2-minute read) — A domestic dispute in Winnebago County took a dramatic turn when an elderly man stepped in to protect a woman from a violent attack. The incident occurred around 10 a.m. on November 25 in the 8900 block of Bluegrass Drive.

Authorities say 32-year-old Nathaniel Brooks was physically assaulting a female victim, pushing, punching, and slapping her. The elderly man, witnessing the attack, called 911 before retrieving his firearm. Despite the call for help, Brooks continued his assault, prompting the man to shoot him in the buttocks to stop the violence. Officials confirmed the man had no intention of killing Brooks—only preventing further harm to the woman.

According to the woman, the confrontation began with an argument, escalating when Brooks punched a hole in the wall before turning his aggression toward her. After being shot, Brooks was taken to Javon Bea Hospital, where he received treatment for his injury. Following his release, he was booked into the Winnebago County Jail.

Brooks now faces charges of aggravated battery against a woman over 60 and battery causing bodily harm. The case underscores the importance of self-defense in life-threatening situations, especially when immediate action can prevent further injury.

Safety Tip: If you must use a firearm for self-defense, always aim to stop the threat rather than cause lethal harm. Knowing your state’s self-defense laws and acting responsibly can make all the difference.