District Attorney Jon David has officially ruled that a Leland homeowner was legally justified in the fatal shooting of Dylan Hennessey on Dixie Drive. Investigators determined the homeowner acted in self-defense after being attacked and dragged into his residence by Hennessey and an accomplice during a domestic-related confrontation.
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LELAND, NC (3-minute read) — A violent early-morning confrontation in Leland has resulted in a final legal determination of self-defense. District Attorney Jon David announced that a homeowner on Dixie Drive will not face criminal charges for the shooting death of Dylan Hennessey on January 2. Following an extensive investigation that included witness interviews, video evidence, and a review by the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), prosecutors concluded that the use of deadly force was legally justified.
The incident began around 3:32 a.m. when Hennessey and a friend, Dustin Powers, arrived at the Dixie Drive residence to confront a woman with whom Hennessey had an on-and-off relationship. Hennessey, who had pending domestic violence charges involving the same woman, reportedly became enraged after learning she was at the home with the male homeowner and a friend.
The Threshold for Justified Force Within the Home
According to the DA’s report, the situation quickly turned physical when Hennessey and Powers allegedly attacked the homeowner outside and dragged him into his own residence. During the ensuing struggle, the homeowner retrieved a firearm and fired five rounds, fatally striking Hennessey. Both Powers and the homeowner sustained non-lethal gunshot wounds during the altercation. Investigators also recovered brass knuckles at the scene, adding further evidence to the violent nature of the assault on the homeowner.
While the homeowner has been cleared of any wrongdoing, Dustin Powers now faces serious criminal charges, including first-degree kidnapping and breaking and entering with the intent to terrorize. The District Attorney has met with Hennessey’s family to discuss the findings, and the complete investigative file has been opened for their legal counsel to review.
This case highlights the critical importance of understanding “Castle Doctrine” and self-defense rights in North Carolina. When a resident is faced with an unlawful and forceful entry into their home, especially one involving a physical assault, the law provides a strong protection for the use of defensive force.
Safety Tip: Domestic-related confrontations are extremely volatile and often lead to tragic outcomes. If you are a homeowner, ensure that your property is secure with reinforced locks and adequate lighting, as these can serve as the first line of defense against an intruder. If a confrontation begins outside your home, your priority should be to retreat inside and immediately call 911. Engaging an aggressor outside increases your legal and physical risk; whenever possible, establish a secure barrier between yourself and the threat.