DESOTO, TX — A home invasion attempt in DeSoto on Friday, November 8, 2024, ended in gunfire after a woman defended herself from an armed man who followed her into her neighborhood and attempted to force his way into her home. The incident took place around 7:54 p.m. in the 400 block of Raintree Circle.

The woman contacted 911, reporting an unknown man in her backyard armed with a pistol. While on the call, dispatch operators heard yelling and screaming as the suspect tried to gain entry through her rear garage door. Witnesses and neighbors also called 911, reporting gunshots heard from the vicinity. DeSoto police arrived on the scene within minutes, meeting the woman at the front of her residence. She informed officers that she believed she had shot the intruder, who was still somewhere behind the house.

Upon searching the premises, officers found the suspect lying in the garage with a pistol beside him. He was identified as 35-year-old Octavio Flores Mondragon. Mondragon sustained gunshot wounds to his chest and face and was in critical condition when transported to a local hospital.

According to the victim, the incident began when she noticed a dark truck following her vehicle as she entered her neighborhood. After parking in her driveway, the truck parked close behind her. Fearing for her safety, the woman rushed into her home and immediately called 911. She armed herself with a pistol as the intruder began trying to force open her garage door. When he persisted, she fired multiple shots, stopping him from entering her home.

Police have charged Mondragon with Burglary of a Habitation with Intent to Commit Another Felony, a first-degree felony. The weapon found beside him is believed to be the firearm he was carrying during the attempted break-in. At this time, police have not identified a motive for the incident.

This incident underscores the importance of awareness and readiness, particularly when someone notices suspicious behavior or feels followed. The woman’s prompt response to enter her home, secure herself, and call for help allowed her to respond effectively to an immediate threat. While shooting someone is never a desired outcome, situations like this highlight the critical role of being prepared in case of an imminent, unlawful threat.