CHICAGO, IL — A concealed carry license holder shot and killed a man Saturday morning after he allegedly tried to break into a West Side apartment where a woman and her children were inside, according to police.

The incident occurred just before 7 a.m. in the 3400 block of West Monroe Street in East Garfield Park. Police said a 33-year-old man was kicking the back door and making threats toward the family inside. The resident contacted both police and a 28-year-old female relative, who arrived quickly to assist.

According to investigators, the man escalated the situation by breaking a bedroom window and threatening to kill the occupants. The 28-year-old, who holds a valid concealed carry license, fired at the suspect, striking him multiple times.

The man was transported to Mt. Sinai Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Authorities confirmed the woman was taken in for questioning, and no charges have been filed at this time. Police believe the incident is domestic-related.

Neighbors expressed shock at the violence. One neighbor, who only learned about the incident hours later, said she was concerned about the children who witnessed the attempted break-in and shooting.

The Cook County Medical Examiner has not publicly released the man’s name. Records show the suspect had an extensive criminal history, including dozens of arrests for domestic battery and multiple convictions. Just weeks earlier, he was arrested at the same address for domestic battery and property damage but was later released on bond.

Thankfully, the woman was able to call a trusted relative who arrived in time to intervene before the suspect gained entry. It is worth considering what might have happened had she been delayed by just a few minutes, the outcome could have been tragic. For many, this incident is a reminder of why responsible gun ownership and readiness are critical when seconds matter and lives are on the line.