In Missouri, the ‘simple’ act of even attempting to break into an occupied residence justifies the legal occupant using deadly force to defend themselves.
Homeowner fatally shoots intruder in Scott City
SCOTT CITY, Mo. (KBSI) – If someone breaks into your home, is it your right to defend yourself?
Under Missouri State Law in many circumstances, it is. This was a situation a Scott City resident faced over the weekend after his home was broken into.
A man is dead after a home invasion incident went wrong in Scott City over the weekend.
“It’s terrible,” said Scott City Police Chief Chris Griggs. “It’s a tragedy for everyone involved. Someone lost their life, and someone’s home was broken into.”
According to Chief Griggs, on Saturday, August 24 around 2:45 p.m., the Scott City Communications Center received a call that an intruder had kicked in the back door of a home on the north side of Scott City.
The intruder was identified as Jason Vermillion.
“He was confronted by the homeowner which demanded that he left,” said Chief Griggs. “He said that he was not leaving, and the altercation occurred and resulted in him being fatally wounded.”
According to Chief Griggs, once officers arrived on scene they used life saving measures, but Vermillion of Scott City later died from his injuries at Saint Francis Medical Center.
Chief Griggs says the shooter is not facing any charges at this time.
“Someone’s home was broken into and had to use lethal force, but was justified in doing so,” said Chief Griggs.
The state of Missouri recognizes castle doctrine and stand-your-ground laws which state if someone is under attack and fear of his/her life, the person has the right to protect him/herself and allows the use of force against intruders. Scott City Police Chief Griggs says the right to defend yourself is also constitutionally protected.
“Your home is your domain, it’s your property, you do whatever force you feel is necessary to stop the threat,” said Chief Griggs.
He says it is unknown why Vermillion broke into the home.
It’s important to note that these laws allow you to act only in self-defense and every situation is handled differently depending on the circumstances.