Homeowner Defeats Burglar with Bear Spray, Shotgun

by
posted on April 23, 2014
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
wilder_ah2015_fs.jpg (9)

This story's really more of a fit over at "The Armed Citizen®" (and you may well see it over there soon enough), but, given the circumstances, I just couldn't leave it alone. According to reports, a Washington man was able to apprehend a young burglar earlier this week. Our protagonist's tools of the trade: bear mace and a trusty shotgun. According to KXLY, the unidentified homeowner heard noises in his garage in the middle of the night, and realized that someone must have broken in. Deciding it was time to act, the homeowner decided to utilize a solution typically reserved for larger, wilder dangers: bear mace. He allegedly emptied the entire can into the garage.As you might expect, the tactic worked. The late-night raiders broke a garage window and made an effort to flee the scene. It was then that one of them ran into the homeowner, who was now waiting in the front yard with a shotgun. According to KREM, the suspect-in-question was wielding a machete and approached the homeowner, but dropped the blade and surrendered after being granted a warning shot.The 17-year-old machete-wielding perp was taken into custody by the authorities, and an alleged 19-year-old accomplice was arrested later on. Police are still searching for an alleged third suspect.Check out the full KXLY report in the video embedded below.

Latest

W H2026 03 Eastturkey IMG 7028
W H2026 03 Eastturkey IMG 7028

Keys to the Eastern Turkey Hunt

A turkey is a turkey regardless of subspecies, sure, but best hunting tactics often vary depending on geographical location due to the birds’ varying behavior. Translated, killing turkeys back East is different than killing them out West. Check out some Eastern-specific tips below, and stay tuned for a follow-up targeted at our Western readers.

Montana and Utah Celebrating 125th Anniversaries

Two 125th Anniversaries are occurring this year, the first being for the entire Montana FWP, and the second being a key piece of property in the history of the Utah DWR.

First Look: Vortex Viper Shotgun Enclosed Micro Green Dot

Purpose-built for turkey hunting and wingshooting, the Vortex Viper Shotgun Enclosed Micro Red Dot line now adds a green reticle option for those who prefer it in certain lighting and shooting conditions.

First Look: Blocker Outdoors Finisher Series

Blocker Outdoors' Finisher Series is a one stop shop for turkey hunters looking to streamline their clothing and gear in the field. Read on for some of the top pieces in this lineup, designed to keep hunters cool and comfortable, while maintaining easy access to essentials.

Know How: Shed Hunting Hellholes

Mark Kayser's fascination with shed antler hellholes kicked off and continues today in whitetail country. Not satisfied with the occasional shed antler found in stubble fields, hay grounds and open pastures, he turned his attention to the thickest, steepest and nastiest geography in the whitetail woods. Here’s why you should consider putting on your big boy pants for a deep dive into the extremes for shed antler rewards.

New for 2026: Federal X Henry Birthday Boy Collector's Edition Ammo

For 2026, Federal Ammunition has partnered with Henry Repeating Arms to produce a collector's series ammunition. This limited-edition load was developed for Henry's commemorative .45-70 Government Golden Boy lever-action rifle, touted as the Birthday Boy.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.