EASLEY, S.C. (AP) - Pickens County deputies say a man killed this week in an Easley house was a burglar who was caught by the homeowner stealing several guns.
Chief Deputy Creed Hashe said in a news release that the homeowner fought with 27-year-old Justin Smith and managed to get a rifle from him and fired several shots at the intruder.
Deputies say Smith tried to leave, but collapsed and died on a deck.
Hashe says evidence collected agrees with the homeowner’s story. Prosecutors are reviewing the investigation to see if the homeowner should be charged or can legally claim self-defense.
Deputies did not release the homeowner’s name.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.