PacoGoal

A 13-year-old boy was home alone in Ladson, South Carolina, when he heard a commotion near the back of the house. When he looked outside, he saw someone trying to break in. According to an arrest affidavit, the boy feared for his safety and grabbed his mother’s handgun. He fired through the door, and the intruder reportedly fired back. Two men then fled in a grey Chevrolet Sonic. The boy continued firing as the vehicle drove away, leaving it riddled with bullet holes. The wounded man was identified as 31-year-old Lamar Anthwan Brown. He had been sh0t three times. The driver, 28-year-old Ira Bennett, took him to Trident Medical Center, where Brown was pronounced dead. Authorities said Brown had a criminal record that included six felony drug convictions and a weapons offence. Bennett was arrested and charged with first-degree burglary and possession of a weapon during the commission of a violent crime. A judge later denied him bond. The boy’s mother said she had purchased the handgun for protection but had never taught her son how to use it. She explained that she always told her children to call 911 if something happened, while also telling them to protect themselves if necessary. A neighbour said he heard several gunsh0ts before seeing a car slowly leaving the property. After investigating, the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office determined that the boy had acted in lawful self-defence. No charges were filed against him. Although neighbours praised his actions, the experience left the family shaken and fearful in their own home. A 13-year-old should never have to face a situation like this alone. Thankfully, he survived the terrifying encounter, but the emotional impact of what happened may stay with him for a long time.