Cautionary Tale-Couple Struggles to Cope After Legit Self Defense Fatal Shot
This unfortunate couple faced a determined intruder that broke into their house, defied warnings, and tried to get into a closet where the unarmed wife was desperately hiding. Her husband fired one shot only which took the life of the intruder.
This is a case of about as successful a shot fired in defense scenario as can be found. It was inside the home. The man kept his cool, tried multiple warnings, only fired when his defenseless wife came under threat. But the consequences have been profound. Public anger, shaming and resentment. Despite being cleared by a grand jury, they have to cope with the regret of taking a life. It’s an example of how our culture shames those who defend themselves with a gun or with fatal force. It’s an example of how the facts can be ignored to suit and attitude about those who save themselves. It’s a damn shame.
Please do hit the link and watch the video. It won’t embed as it is flash. But if you take the time I think you will understand both how foolish any bravado about self defense is, and how sometimes necessary and effective it can be in the right hands.
…Police came, but then came a new burden. The intruder dead on the floor was the stepson of Cedar Hill Mayor Rob Franke, 31-year-old Joshua Wayne Slaven.
Toxicology reports later revealed Slaven was high on PCP and also marijuana.
“Horrible. It was the worst experience I’ve ever had,” Gareth Long said. “I was very scared.”
So, in addition to taking a life, the Longs have had to deal with the stigma of notoriety. Despite being cleared by a grand jury and by police, Gareth and Lacy Long have faced anger and criticism.
More: Cedar Hill Couple Reeling Months After Shooting Intruder