A 59-year-old man is in police custody after a Chicago homeowner with a valid Concealed Carry License (CCL) shot him during an attempted garage burglary early Saturday morning. The incident occurred in the 5100-block of S. Loomis Boulevard, and the suspect is expected to survive his injuries.
CHICAGO, IL — The early morning silence of Chicago’s Back of the Yards neighborhood was broken by gunfire Saturday when a homeowner confronted an intruder on his property. At approximately 2:39 a.m., Chicago Police Department (CPD) officers responded to reports of a shooting in the 5100-block of S. Loomis Boulevard.
Upon arrival, investigators learned that a 59-year-old man had allegedly been in the process of breaking into a garage at the residence. The homeowner, who is a valid CCL holder, discovered the intrusion and confronted the suspect. During the encounter, the homeowner drew a firearm and discharged it, striking the intruder in the right calf.
The Aftermath and Investigation
The suspect was transported to the University of Chicago Hospital, where he is listed in stable condition and expected to recover. CPD Area One Detectives are currently leading the investigation into the shooting. While the homeowner has cooperated with authorities, police noted that charges against the 59-year-old suspect are pending.
This incident highlights the ongoing debate regarding the use of force to protect property in Illinois. While a CCL provides the legal framework for carrying a firearm, the “justified use of force” usually requires a reasonable belief that such force is necessary to prevent imminent death or great bodily harm. In this case, the fact that the shooting occurred during a confrontation after a forced entry will be a central focus for detectives.
Safety Tip: Confronting a burglar in a detached garage at 2 a.m. carries immense tactical and legal risk. If you are a CCL holder and discover someone on your property, your safest option is often to observe from a secure location within your home while calling 911. Entering a dark, confined space like a garage to confront an intruder can lead to a “close-quarters” struggle where your firearm could be turned against you. If you must intervene, ensure you have a high-output light to identify the suspect and their hands.