Police: Intruder Attempting To Steal $5,000 Worth Of Marijuana Shot Dead By Homeowner During Botched Home Invasion
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- An intruder was shot dead by a homeowner during a botched home invasion at an alleged drug house in South Philadelphia on Wednesday night. Police are searching for a second suspect who ran from the scene.
Philadelphia police and medics found the suspect shot dead inside a home on the 2200 block of Darien Street, just after 11 p.m. on Wednesday.
"They found a male laying on the first-floor living room, by the bottom of the steps. He was slumped over bleeding heavily from his head and body," Philadelphia Police Chief Inspector Scott Small said.
Police believe the suspect and the homeowner were struggling over a gun.
Homicide detectives say thousands of dollars' worth of illegal drugs were stashed inside the home. The alleged drug house and deadly shooting have left people who live nearby on edge.
"It's crazy," Philip Tonelli said. "It's so close to home."
Neighbors say they woke up to the explosion of several gunshots. Investigators say it was a violent end to a home invasion.
Police say the gunfire erupted just as the homeowner answered a knock on the door.
"It was at this time the two armed gunmen forced their way into the property," Philadelphia Police Capt. Jason Smith said. "A struggle ensued between the witness and first gunman for control of the handgun."
During the struggle a bullet grazed the head of the homeowner, but he was still able to grab the gun and fire at the first suspect, killing him. That suspect has been identified as 27-year-old James Jones.
"Mr. Jones has six prior arrests for charges, including aggravated assault and simple assault, robbery, theft and other violations," Smith said.
A second suspect got away. He's described as about 6-foot-1 with a husky build. He was last seen wearing dark clothing.
Authorities believe the suspects were attempting to steal roughly $5,000 worth of marijuana hidden inside the home. Police say the homeowner is now a witness.
"The witness is not expected to face charges regarding the shooting incident. The witness may, however, face charges regarding the narcotics located in the residence," Smith said.
Police also say they recovered a handgun inside the home used by the first intruder who was killed. The handgun was reported stolen in 2014 from North Carolina.
CBS3's Chantee Lans and Matt Petrillo contributed to this report.
