Maryland Residents Shoot, Kill 2nd Alleged Intruder This Week

MITCHELVILLE, Md. -- Police say a 70-year-old man shot and killed a suspect who allegedly broke into his home in Mitchellville, Md., looking for his girlfriend Wednesday about 10 p.m.

"The suspect broke a window near the front door and was able to reach in and open that front door," said Prince George's County police spokesman Cpl. Ron Clark. "He then forced his way into the front of the house and was confronted by the homeowner. That homeowner was involved in some form of a confrontation, and at some point the homeowner shot this suspect multiple times, killing him."

Tuesday morning another homeowner shot and killed a man who allegedly used a ladder in an attempt to break into a home in Adelphi, Md. In both cases, prosecutors said Maryland law states a person can defend himself and his property, but there are several factors that go into determining whether the homeowner would face charges.

WRC-TV in Washington, D.C., asked Prince George's County States Attorney Glen Ivey if matters whether the suspect is in your home or about to enter your home when you use deadly force?

"It's a factor to be considered but it doesn't necessarily mean that the use of force is justified or not justified," Ivy said. "It really depends on the circumstances and you have to look at all of them together and make a decision."

Neighbors who live near the latest incident had mixed reactions to whether they would ever use deadly force. One woman who spoke with WRC-TV said if she felt she was being threatened, she would definitely use deadly force, but a man said since he didn't believe in having a gun in his home, he would have to call the proper authorities and let them handle it.

Both cases are now being reviewed by the State's Attorney's office and so far, neither homeowner has been charged.