Baltimore store owner’s fatal shooting of burglar ruled self-defense

(WBFF) — The Baltimore City State’s Attorney’s Office ruled that the fatal shooting of a suspected burglar by a jewelry store owner was an act of self-defense.

The decision, announced Monday by City State’s Attorney Ivan Bates, follows a review by the office’s homicide unit.

The incident happened on Oct. 16, just after 2 a.m., when the store owner, who lives above the business on Fleet Street in Canton, opened fire on 39-year-old Richard Rolfe, killing him.

Christine Wilson, a neighbor, recalled the early morning gunfire. “I heard it right outside my window. And so, kind of nervous about, called 911,” she said.

Under Maryland law, self-defense or defense of habitation can be claimed by meeting several factors, including:

• If a suspect attempts to enter a property
• The owner believes the suspect intends to commit a crime leading to death or serious injury
• The owner reasonably believes force is necessary.

The investigation revealed that the store owner believed Rolfe was armed, although it was later found that Rolfe did not have a gun. “Based on the facts of this case, we believe that this shooting meets the requirements of self-defense in the state of Maryland,” Bates said.

Wilson expressed relief at the decision, saying, “That is fantastic news. That is great news for all of us in this neighborhood.” She added, “It’s sad that a life had to be lost at all and there are people grieving for that person. So, it’s not really a celebration but it’s just like, ok, great, the system works.”

The store owner, who declined an on-camera interview, did say he was relieved and satisfied with the ruling.