Virginia homeowner shoots intruder during attempted break-in

FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. – A Fairfax County homeowner shot a man attempting to break into his home early Wednesday morning, authorities said. 

Virginia home invasion investigation

The backstory:

The incident occurred in the Lake Barcroft area of Falls Church.

Fairfax County Police reported that the suspect tried to break into two homes in the neighborhood before being shot at the front door of the second house. The incident unfolded around 2:30 a.m. on Oakwood Drive, where the homeowner was on the phone with a 911 dispatcher when he opened fire, striking the intruder multiple times.

Ring video footage from a neighbor across the street captured the aftermath of the shooting. 

What they’re saying:

The homeowner declined to comment when approached, but neighbors shared their concerns about safety.

“It’s usually a really safe area,” said Haley Wilson, a neighbor. “My family lives around here… but you’ve got to be safe. Cameras, nice locks — they help.”

Another neighbor, who preferred to remain anonymous, noted that crime in the area has gradually increased. 

“We’ve been living here for 25 years, and it’s like little stuff—cars getting fussed with—that’s become more frequent in the last three or four years.”

Who is the suspect? 

Big picture view:

Police confirmed that the same suspect attempted to break into another nearby home shortly before the shooting. No injuries were reported at the first house.

The suspect is currently hospitalized with life-threatening injuries and will face charges once his condition improves, police said.