In a recent incident in Rancho Cordova, California, a 70-year-old business owner, identified only as Robert for privacy reasons, took action to protect his grandsons from a burglar. The event unfolded in the early morning hours of Nov. 24 when the burglar broke into Robert's store on Folsom Boulevard.
Robert, along with his two grandsons aged 4 and 14, was asleep in the back room when the intruder entered through the front store window. The 14-year-old grandson alerted Robert to the presence of the burglar, prompting Robert to retrieve a gun that had been in his possession since 1958.
When the suspect attempted to kick in the door to the back room where Robert and his grandsons were located, Robert fired at the intruder, who was wielding a butane torch. The burglar, who showed intent to harm Robert, sustained a gunshot wound and later succumbed to his injuries after leaving the store.
Robert, who had been robbed at gunpoint three times previously, believed that the burglar's motive in this instance was not just theft but potentially a threat to his life. The Sacramento Sheriff's Office confirmed the shooting and stated that an investigation is ongoing.
Reflecting on the incident, Robert expressed remorse over the outcome but emphasized his priority was protecting his family. He described the harrowing experience of feeling compelled to act swiftly to ensure the safety of his grandsons.
Authorities have not made any arrests in connection with the incident, and the investigation continues as forensic analysis and other procedures are carried out. Despite the emotional toll the event has taken on him, Robert remains grateful that his grandchildren are unharmed.