Homeowner warns, shoots advancing intruder in motorhome, Modesto police say
A man who broke into a motorhome parked outside a Modesto residence was shot when the owner, responding to an alarm, found him in it Thursday morning, police report.
At 5:22 a.m., officers were called to the home on the 2000 block of Gordon Avenue, just off Tokay Avenue between Sunrise Avenue and Coffee Road. The homeowner had heard his motorhome alarm sounding and went outside to check, Police Department spokeswoman Sharon Bear said.
He confronted 25-year-old Samuel White Jr., who was inside, Bear said. With his wife already on the phone with a 911 dispatcher, the resident tried to detain White.
He let the intruder know police were on their way, but White advanced in what the homeowner saw as a threatening way, Bear said. He fired once, hitting White in one of his legs.
“The preliminary investigation indicates the homeowner acted in self-defense, and at this point he is not being charged,” Bear said. He was not injured in the confrontation with White.
The suspect, who apparently was alone and arrived on foot, was taken to a hospital for treatment, Bear said, adding that he was cooperating with officers.
White faces charges of burglary and violation of probation and is wanted in Ripon in a larceny case, Bear said.
Later Thursday morning, the homeowner declined to talk with The Bee about the incident. His wife briefly stated that they’ve been hit by burglars several times before, as have other neighbors.
Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is urged to contact Stanislaus Area Crime Stoppers at 209-521-4636. Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward. Tips also can be submitted via www.stancrimetips.org.
This story was originally published January 9, 2020 at 7:39 AM.
