A Ben-Shemen resident during the predawn hours on Tuesday shot and critically wounded a burglar who entered the home at about 4:30am. The intruder sustained critical injuries. He was transported to Assaf HaRofeh Hospital in Tzrifin where he died a short time later. Two other suspects succeeded in fleeing the scene.

The homeowner is reportedly a member of a security force, claiming the three tried to attack him, compelling him to use his weapon. Galei Tzahal (Army Radio) reported the man was shot about 20 meters from the entrance of the home, in a yard, sustaining wounds to his chest and back. Police are reporting that the preliminary evidence and statements does not prove without a doubt that the victim indeed attempted to break into the home.

The case brings to mind the Shai Dromi case, a farmer who shot and killed an intruder in his home about 18 months ago. He was eventually charged with manslaughter, prompting the Knesset to pass what is known as the Shai Dromi Law, exonerating someone who shoots at an intruder in the home, workplace, or agricultural field unless his actions are deemed totally unjustifiable.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)