DA Ferman Says Fatal Cheltenham Shooting Might Have Been Justified
By Brad Segall
CHELTENHAM, Pa. (CBS) -- The investigation continues into a deadly shooting in Cheltenham last week, but at this point Montgomery County authorities say it looks like the shooting was justified.
A 20-year-old college student and his friend were outside his Lynnewood Gardens apartment last Friday night when they were approached by a stranger. Prosecutors say the student became fearful for his safety. He went back inside, but was followed by the man.
District Attorney Risa Ferman says that's when the student pulled out a semi-automatic rifle and fired one shot, killing 32-year-old Jasper Brisbon.
"This is what we refer to when we talk about the Castle Doctrine. The notion that your home is your castle and you have the right inside of your home or in the home environment to defend yourself," Ferman explained.
She says the shooter has been cooperating with police and while they are still waiting for some evidence to come back, including toxicology tests on Brisbon, it appears the homeowner acted properly under the law.
Ferman says the gun was legally purchased.
