Preparedness
Armed Georgia Homeowner Foils Car Burglars in High-Stakes Showdown
Over the past weekend, a case of attempted car burglary turned into a tense standoff in the Benning Hills neighborhood of Columbus, Georgia. The incident involved a vigilant homeowner, armed and ready, and two young male suspects who were soon to regret their ill-intended actions.
Shortly past midnight on Saturday, local police were alerted to two males reported to be breaking into cars in the vicinity. Upon their arrival, a scene was already unfolding. The homeowner, armed and wary, had confronted the two suspects.
“Authorities said the homeowner confronted the suspects, and one of the suspects advanced toward the homeowner, after which the homeowner shot the suspect.”
This incident rapidly escalated from a typical break-in into a high-stakes confrontation. It was a clear example of a homeowner protecting his property, his safety, and his rights.
In the suspects’ haste to escape the scene, they left behind a pistol in their vehicle. Police also discovered more than 40 grams of marijuana. It was a shocking find that only further implicated the two males in illegal activities.
“After one of the suspects advanced toward the homeowner, he opened fire. Both suspects fled the scene in a vehicle to a nearby gas station,” police reported.
The local police were back on their trail within minutes. At 12:03 a.m., officers were dispatched to a Circle K on Victory Drive and North Lumpkin Road. Here, they found 18-year-old Deonte Smith suffering from a gunshot wound.
After being promptly taken to a hospital, Smith was reported to be in stable condition. His accomplice, a 17-year-old male, was apprehended by the police. He was found in possession of a stolen firearm.
“Officers found another pistol inside the suspects’ vehicle along with more than 40 grams of marijuana,” the police added.
The 17-year-old suspect was slapped with a litany of charges including entering an auto, receiving stolen property (firearm), possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of drug-related objects, loitering, and credit card theft.
As for Smith, the authorities plan to obtain warrants for his arrest. Upon his release from the hospital, he will be transported to the Muscogee County Jail. Charges are pending for Smith, though the authorities did not disclose the specifics.
The incident garnered ample attention on the police department’s Facebook post. Here’s what some of the commenters had to say:
“The homeowner should be given a ‘stand your ground’ award!!” one commenter proclaimed.
“Great job officers and great job to [the] homeowner for protecting what is his,” shared another.
“Good for the homeowner,” praised another commenter. “Two more thugs off the streets.”
“Nice to get a couple of thieves off the streets…and homeowners protecting their ground!!” another commenter enthusiastically declared. “Great job.”
Stories like these are a stark reminder of the importance of personal preparedness and the right to protect one’s property. Being ready can make a world of difference, and as this homeowner has shown, may keep your property safe and even save your life.
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.
Survival isn’t just about wilderness skills or stockpiling food. In today’s America, survival means being ready — financially, mentally, and physically — for rapid change. Under President Trump’s current term, the country is moving fast. Supporters see decisive leadership, tougher borders, economic nationalism, and a renewed focus on American strength. But with that speed comes disruption, resistance, and uncertainty. That’s where personal preparedness comes in.
President Trump has made it clear he believes in self-reliance, national security, and strength over dependence. Those same principles apply at the household level. Whether it’s supply chain pressure, political unrest, inflation, or grid stress, Americans who prepare are simply harder to shake.
1. Control What You Can Control
Trump’s presidency has emphasized America first — but that mindset starts at home. You may not control Congress, global markets, or activist judges, but you can control your food, water, cash reserves, and personal security. A prepared household is less vulnerable to sudden price spikes, shortages, or emergencies caused by political or economic battles in Washington.
Stocking basic food, having backup power, and keeping cash on hand isn’t paranoia — it’s responsibility.
2. Supply Chains Are Still Fragile
Despite economic growth claims and lower energy prices in some areas, grocery costs and essentials remain unpredictable. Trump’s push for tariffs and reshoring manufacturing is aimed at long-term strength, but transitions aren’t painless. Short-term disruptions happen before long-term gains materialize.
Smart Americans don’t wait for headlines to confirm trouble. They quietly build buffers: extra food, household necessities, and alternative sourcing.
3. Civil Unrest Isn’t Going Away
Trump’s presidency continues to expose deep political divides. Protests, counter-protests, and aggressive rhetoric aren’t disappearing — they’re becoming normalized. Survival today means knowing how to avoid trouble, not chase it.
Situational awareness, safe travel habits, and basic home security upgrades matter more now than they did a decade ago. Strong borders don’t eliminate internal instability overnight.
4. Medical and Personal Readiness Matter
Government systems get stressed during shutdowns, disasters, or mass events. Trump often criticizes bloated bureaucracy for a reason — it moves slowly when speed matters. Having basic medical supplies, prescriptions, and personal health plans ensures you don’t depend entirely on institutions that may lag when demand spikes.
Preparedness is independence.
5. Survival Is a Mindset, Not Fear
Trump supporters are often labeled “fearful,” yet preparedness is the opposite of fear. It’s confidence. It’s knowing that no matter what happens — politically, economically, or socially — your family is stable.
The core Trump message has always been strength, resilience, and refusing to be weak or dependent. Survival thinking aligns perfectly with that philosophy.
America is changing. Fast leadership brings fast reactions. The prepared citizen doesn’t panic, protest, or plead — they adapt.
Survival today isn’t about hiding from the future. It’s about being ready to face it head-on.
Traveling internationally can be rewarding, but it also carries risks that vary widely by destination and situation. The U.S. government offers specific safety guidelines to help American travelers prepare, stay informed, and protect themselves throughout their trip.
Here are key practices U.S. citizens should follow to stay safe overseas:
1. Check Travel Advisories Before You Go
The U.S. Department of State issues travel advisories for every country. These advisories use a four-level system to show risk:
- Level 1: Exercise normal precautions
- Level 2: Exercise increased caution
- Level 3: Reconsider travel
- Level 4: Do not travel
Before booking or departing, always review the current advisory for your destination. Higher levels indicate serious risks like crime, civil unrest, terrorism, health emergencies, or limited emergency services.
2. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
Before departure, sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This free service connects you to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and keeps you informed with real-time updates about safety, weather, civil unrest, or health issues in your destination. It also makes it easier for authorities to contact you or your emergency contacts if needed.
3. Know Local Laws and Customs
U.S. citizens abroad must obey the laws of the country they are visiting. Local legal systems and penalties can differ significantly from those in the United States. Travelers should research local laws, dress codes, cultural norms, and any restricted activities before departure to avoid fines, detention, or legal complications.
4. Prepare Important Documents and Contacts
Carry your passport with you at all times and make digital copies of important documents like your passport page, travel insurance, and emergency contacts. Leave copies with someone at home and store them securely online. Keep local embassy contact information readily available in case you need assistance while abroad.
5. Have a Personal Emergency Plan
Emergencies can range from civil unrest and natural disasters to health crises and lost travel documents. Plan ahead:
- Know where the U.S. embassy or consulate is in your destination
- Have a communication plan with family or friends back home
- Know your travel insurance coverage and how to access medical care while abroad
- Understand evacuation routes and local emergency services
During a crisis, the U.S. government may not be able to evacuate you immediately. You should be ready to use commercial travel options to leave if it is safe to do so.
6. Stay Alert and Use Common Sense
Travel safety often comes down to ordinary precautions:
- Avoid risky areas and follow local authority instructions
- Keep a low profile and avoid displaying expensive items
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded or unfamiliar places
These practices reduce the chance of being targeted for theft or other crimes.
Why This Matters Today
Global travel risks can change quickly due to political tensions, health outbreaks, or civil unrest. For example, the U.S. government has issued worldwide travel caution alerts during periods of heightened international tension, underscoring the importance of staying updated with current risks.
Summary of Key Safety Steps
- Check official travel advisories for your destination
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
- Know local laws and customs
- Carry and secure important travel documents
- Prepare a personal emergency plan
- Stay alert and cautious throughout your trip
Traveling across the United States is one of the great freedoms Americans enjoy. Whether you’re driving state to state, flying cross-country, or taking a long road trip, staying safe and fully within the law doesn’t require anything complicated. It just takes preparation, awareness, and a few essentials that every traveler should have in place before they go.
Here are five things you need to travel across America confidently, safely, and legally.
1. Valid Government-Issued Identification
This is non-negotiable.
A valid ID proves who you are and allows you to travel without unnecessary delays or problems.
For most people, this means:
- A valid driver’s license or REAL ID
- A state-issued ID card if you don’t drive
- A valid U.S. passport (especially useful for air travel)
If you’re flying, your ID must meet TSA requirements. If you’re driving, your license must be current and not suspended. Keep your ID easily accessible, but secure.
2. Proof of Legal Residency or Citizenship (If Applicable)
If you are a U.S. citizen, carrying proof such as a passport or passport card adds an extra layer of security during long trips, especially near border states or when flying.
If you are a legal resident or visa holder, you should always carry:
- Your valid visa or green card
- Any required travel documents associated with your status
Having proper documentation protects you from misunderstandings and unnecessary stress.
3. Proper Vehicle Documents (If Driving)
If you’re traveling by car, make sure your paperwork is up to date.
This includes:
- Vehicle registration
- Proof of insurance
- A valid driver’s license
Law enforcement checks are routine and usually brief when paperwork is in order. Keeping documents organized shows responsibility and helps everything go smoothly.
4. A Safe and Legal Travel Plan
You don’t need a strict itinerary, but you should know where you’re going and how you’ll get there.
A smart travel plan includes:
- Knowing your route and major stops
- Booking legal accommodations (hotels, campgrounds, or rentals)
- Understanding basic state laws (speed limits, phone use, toll roads)
Each state has its own rules, and being aware of them helps you avoid fines or problems.
5. Emergency Contacts and Communication
Safety isn’t just about laws — it’s about preparedness.
Carry a charged phone, a car charger or power bank, and a written list of emergency contacts in case technology fails.
It’s also wise to:
- Share your travel plans with someone you trust
- Check weather conditions regularly
- Keep emergency numbers saved and written down
Prepared travelers are calm travelers.
Final Thought
Traveling across America legally and safely doesn’t require fear or special permissions. It requires valid identification, proper documents, respect for local laws, and basic preparedness.
When you travel with everything in order, you’re free to enjoy the journey — not worry about it.
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victoria hawke
July 16, 2024 at 11:37 pm
had a similar situation where someone broke into my place, heard noise on the other side of the bedroom door,he was holding the door closed so i said you better let go of the door or i will start shooting thru it, opened the door and there he was about 12 feet away with some of my belongings on the floor next to him, i told him to not move and had him at gun point, don’t move and he took a step towards me and i dropped the safety, it was a 1911 45, i told him i just disengaged the safety and i will shoot him if he takes one more step, here is the crazy part he started yelling go on shoot me i don’t care, go on shoot, then he calmed down turned around and left, i knew the kid so i called the police put my pistol away and 10 minutes later they came, they did there job of checking the place asking lots of questions etc.. what a crazy experience, i was very composed and luckily i did not have to pull the trigger. this was the 4th time i have pulled my pistol out in self defense. they finally caught and arrested him
Danny Phillips
July 16, 2024 at 11:48 pm
The constitution guarantees us the right to bear arms. Using arms to protect our property should not be questioned. Two young person’s weather legal or illegal has no bearing on anything. Shooting the young person was the right thing to do, you don’t know what they would have done to him if he didn’t pull the trigger. The lefty loonies don’t like this. They don’t want anybody to have a gun. You can’t take all the guns away from criminals, so why try to take them from law abiding citizens. If somebody is approaching you and you tell them to stop, and they keep coming draw your pistol and if absolutely necessary shoot.
Herb
July 17, 2024 at 4:00 am
Why should a person have to give up their property to thieves with no arguement?
Theft is just murder on the installment plan. When a person works hard to earn the money to buy something they need or want and that item is stolen all of the time and effort that they put in is stolen. Murder is the theft of the rest of a person’s life. Theft is stealing that person’s life a little bit at a time.
Brent Bumgarner
July 17, 2024 at 3:59 pm
Bravo homeowner! Unfortunately, as long as there are punk thieves allowed out of jail and on our streets, there’ll be more and more of them versus us! There’s not enough law enforcement to corral these druggies on their own, so they need our help and ALL OF US need to be prepared to defend ourselves our families fellow innocents and our property! Be vigilant and prepared! Godspeed!
Timothy
July 20, 2024 at 1:45 pm
“two thugs off the street” until court opens, where a socialist judge lets them go, no bail, no punishment. Amerika is evil. She will burn & die soon… rightly so