Fort Worth homeowner shoots suspected intruder

FORT WORTH, Texas - Fort Worth police are investigating whether a man who was shot by a homeowner was a prowler.

Police said the shooting happened just after midnight Wednesday as the man was in his garage smoking a cigarette. A smartphone app alerted him to the fact that a man at the front door was trying to open it.

The homeowner, who lives in a neighborhood near McCart Avenue and Columbus Trail in south Fort Worth, grabbed his gun and fired through the door.

Police said the man outside was shot three times. He was taken to the hospital with a gunshot wound to his neck, wrist and arm and is expected to survive.

“You don’t want someone entering your home, you have the right to protect your home, right to protect your family. This being said, it’s the holiday season, seeing lot of different crimes coming up. We ask that everyone be vigilant watch your surroundings look out for your neighbors,” said FWPD’s Tracy Carter.

Police say they don’t believe the men know each other. They’re investigating why the man who was shot came to the door at 12:30 a.m.

Investigators say they believe the homeowner had a real concern for his safety.

Police don’t expect to file charges against the homeowner and they’re still talking to the man who was shot and remains in the hospital.