Homeowner Shoots Burglary Suspect

In the early hours of Saturday at 4:20 a.m., authorities in Limestone County swiftly moved to the 17000 block of Morris Rd. in Elkmont, AL, following a distress call about a burglary underway. The homeowner recounted being jolted awake by the sound of someone aggressively attempting to break into their home. Reacting promptly, the homeowner armed himself and stood ready for the deputies’ arrival.

Before law enforcement could reach the scene, the intruder forcibly entered the homeowner’s premises by kicking down the door, breaching the sanctity of the residence. Inside, he was met with defensive gunfire from the homeowner. Subsequently, the intruder retreated outdoors, where he succumbed to the wounds inflicted upon him.

Upon investigation, the deceased intruder was identified as Christopher Jason Hovis, a 44-year-old resident of Hartselle, AL. The inquiry into the incident remains active; however, initial findings suggest that the shooting was a justifiable act of self-defense, leading to no charges being pressed at this juncture.