A 31-year-old Apache Junction man was shot during a struggle with a prowler in his back yard just before 3 a.m. on September 3. The man was shot once in the thigh and is expected to survive the injury. He lives at the residence with his mother, who was unharmed.
The man, who lives at 3400 S. Ironwood Drive in Apache Junction, reported to deputies that he awoke just prior to 3 a.m. to noises coming from his back yard and his dogs were barking. He armed himself with a rifle and went outside to check on the noises. He saw a man described as Hispanic, wearing a blue shirt and a black cap. He confronted the man and a struggle over the weapon ensued. The intruder disarmed the victim and fired once at his leg. The intruder then fled over the back fence.
Deputies searching the area were unable to locate the suspect. The victim was taken to a local hospital and treated for his injuries.
Sheriff Paul Babeu said, “Our investigators are working hard to identify the attacker and we would like to talk to anyone in the neighborhood who may have information that can help us solve this case.” Babeu went on to caution citizens, “Anytime you choose to arm yourself to protect your home or family, you must understand the risks associated with confronting an intruder with your firearm. This man is very fortunate to have survived the encounter.”