Suspect Shot By Homeowner In Germantown Burglary: Police

GERMANTOWN, MD — Detectives with the Montgomery County Police are investigating the burglary of a Germantown residence that occurred early Sunday morning. During the burglary, the homeowner shot a 19-year-old male suspect who remains in serious condition with life-threatening injuries at a local hospital, police said.

At approximately 2:11 a.m. Saturday, officers from the 5th District responded to a burglary in progress at a home in the 11700 block of Tall Pines Drive in Germantown. Officers located a suspect in the backyard suffering from an apparent gunshot wound and they began life-saving measures while Fire and Rescue services was called, police said.

The preliminary investigation has revealed that the homeowner heard noises in the basement and believed his home was being burglarized. He armed himself with a handgun and went to investigate, police said. The man encountered two unknown suspects in the basement of his home.

One of the suspects threatened to kill the homeowner, and the homeowner discharged a firearm twice at that suspect and allegedly struck him with one of the rounds, police said. The suspect is currently being treated at a local trauma center for life threatening injuries.

The description of the second suspect remains unconfirmed.

This remains an ongoing investigation. Detectives are urging anyone with information about this event to contact the Major Crimes Division at 240-773-5070.

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