A Butts County, GA man used a firearm to defend his family from a violent home intruder by firing a single warning shot. The suspect fled, and authorities quickly arrested him nearby.

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BUTTS COUNTY, GA (3-minute read) — A family in Butts County was left shaken but safe after a harrowing late-night home invasion on Sunday. Around 11:30 p.m., Justin Couch was at home with his wife and three children when one of his sons heard a strange noise at his bedroom window. What followed was a terrifying encounter that highlights the importance of preparedness and responsible firearm ownership.

According to Couch, after pressing on the window to investigate, glass fell out, revealing a man charging toward the house from across the street. The suspect, later identified as Abdul Aquill, was yelling threats and obscenities, stating, “I’m gonna kill you,” while approaching the home.

Couch quickly retrieved his firearm and returned to find the man halfway through the living room window, wielding a broom. With one leg still outside and the rest of his body inside, Couch fired a single warning shot. The blast sent the intruder fleeing, possibly saving the lives of everyone inside the home.

“I was glad I had my gun to defend myself,” Couch said. “It saved me and my family’s life.”

Authorities confirmed that the suspect first attempted to enter through the son’s window using a skateboard before moving to the living room. Butts County Sheriff Gary Long praised Couch’s actions, emphasizing the role of armed self-defense in preventing tragedy. Deputies arrived on scene within minutes and apprehended Aquill after a brief physical altercation.

Aquill now faces a slew of charges, including burglary, home invasion, terroristic threats, and cruelty to children.

Home Defense and Firearm Safety Matter

Couch, a firm supporter of the Second Amendment, hopes his story will encourage others to be prepared. “Everybody needs to be armed and know how to use it,” he said.

While the family escaped without physical injury, the emotional toll of the incident remains. The investigation into the suspect’s motives continues.

Safety Tip: Always secure your firearm in a safe but accessible location and ensure every adult in the household knows how to safely operate it. Training is key to responsible self-defense.