Residents living along the 1300 block of Belmont Drive in San Marcos were stunned to learn that a teenager was shot multiple times in an apparent home invasion on their quiet street.
“I'm just shocked that there would be that type of criminal and crime going on in this neighborhood and in San Marcos,” Evelyn Johnson said.
The suspected intruder was 19 year old Elijah Espinoza. Commander Chase Stapp with the San Marcos Police Department says Espinoza was shot by a resident as he tried to enter the back door of the home around 3 a.m. Sunday.
“We don't know of any connection between the suspect and that home,” said Commander Chase Stapp.
The shooting could fall under the Castle Law -- which gives people the right to use whatever means necessary to protect themselves and their property without fear of civil liability.
“There is certainly a good chance that this is a self defense case,” said Stapp.
Commander Stapp says someone broke into the same home early Saturday and assaulted a woman inside. He believes there is a good chance Espinoza is responsible for that assault.
“She was fondled and her clothing was torn.” Stapp said. “She screamed and he left the house.”
Neighbors say they think the resident did the right thing protecting his family.
“Surly that was a human reaction,” said Johnson. “I can't say that I think it's wrong you know.”
“I think I would do the same thing when it comes to protecting your family,” Lela Kidd said. “Every one of us would protect our family.”
“Our hearts go out to both families involved in this situation,” Stapp said. “This is a tragedy for sure.”
No charges have been filed against the resident who shot Espinoza.
