Shreveport Homeowner Opens Fire on Alleged Car Burglar – Was It Self-Defense or Overreach?

Shreveport, LA – A tense confrontation between a homeowner and an alleged car burglar ended in gunfire early Tuesday morning, sparking a heated debate about property rights and self-defense.

The Incident: What Happened?

Just before 2 a.m., Shreveport police rushed to the 200 block of West 70th Street after reports of a shooting. Witnesses claim the homeowner spotted a man, later identified as Brandon Johnson, 32, allegedly breaking into vehicles in the neighborhood.

• Homeowner's Claim: The resident told investigators he saw Johnson rifling through a neighbor’s car before confronting him.
• Shots Fired: When Johnson reportedly advanced toward the homeowner, the resident opened fire, striking the suspect multiple times.
• Police Response: Officers arrived to find Johnson critically wounded. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he remains in stable condition.

Legal Gray Area: When Does Defense Become Excessive?

Louisiana’s “Stand Your Ground” law allows property owners to use force—even deadly force—if they reasonably believe it’s necessary to prevent a felony. But did this situation warrant gunfire?

1. Was the homeowner in immediate danger? Some argue Johnson was unarmed, making lethal force questionable.
2. Did verbal warnings precede the shooting? Neighbors are divided over whether the homeowner attempted to de-escalate first.
3. Prior incidents? Records show Johnson has a history of theft-related offenses, raising questions about intent.

Community Reactions: Fear vs. Vigilance

The incident has polarized locals:

• Supporters: "People are tired of thieves. If cops won’t stop it, we will," said one neighbor.
• Critics: "This wasn’t a life-or-death situation. Someone could’ve died over a car stereo," countered another.

What's Next?

No charges have been filed against the homeowner, but SPD confirms the investigation is ongoing. Johnson faces potential burglary charges if he recovers.

What Do You Think?

• Should homeowners have the right to shoot suspected burglars before they enter a home?
• Is property crime so rampant that citizens must take extreme measures?
• Could this escalate into more violent confrontations between residents and thieves?
• Would better policing reduce these incidents, or is armed deterrence the only solution?