70-Year-Old Fends Off Intruder with Lead-Powered Message

In the tranquil hours of early morning, 70-year-old Steve Huntley was jolted awake by a persistent, unsettling noise. Living in the Nutbush neighborhood of Memphis, Huntley was familiar with the sound, which he described to WREG-TV as a “bump, bump, bump.” This disturbance was more than enough to rouse his dogs.

The source of the disruption was soon revealed – an uninvited guest was attempting to breach the sanctuary of his home through a back door. Huntley found himself standing directly in the face of danger, confronting the intruder.

In a display of natural survival instinct, Huntley recounted his reaction. “I shoved him,” he told the station, “He hit the ground down there. I slammed the door and went in to get my pistol.” His quick-thinking response resulted in a precious few moments, enough time to retrieve his firearm.

In a tense return to the scene, Huntley fired a single shot. This lead-powered message was enough to send the intruder sprinting away. He noted to WREG that recurring instances such as these have led to a decline in the neighborhood’s populace.

Data from the Memphis police indicates that Huntley’s experience is not an isolated incident. Over the past year, authorities have been alerted to 170 instances of break-ins, property crimes, and thefts, all within a mere half-mile radius of Huntley’s residence.

For Huntley, the impetus to guard his home extends beyond these statistics. He has his reasons, not least of which is a heartrending personal tragedy. His son was tragically killed in a shooting incident in 2016, making his commitment to protect his loved ones a non-negotiable priority.

In the face of threats, Huntley has resolved to combat danger, even if it costs him his life. “He picked the wrong place to try and break into,” he said of the intruder, adding, “Because my motto is, ‘If you come in here, you are going to meet your maker.’”

In the aftermath of this incident, police apprehended the alleged intruder not far from Huntley’s home. His charges are still pending, but the message has been undeniably delivered: trespassing on Huntley’s property is a dangerous gamble.

In light of recent news, how should laws regarding home defense be structured?

Stand Your Ground Laws Should Be Expanded

Current Laws Are Sufficient

Implement Stricter Controls on Use of Force

Increase Support for Non-Lethal Defense Methods

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Watch a local news segment on the harrowing incident below: