A Missouri man fatally shot an intruder who was attempting to break into his home late Thursday night in Scott County. Authorities ruled the shooting a justifiable act of self-defense under Missouri law.

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SCOTT COUNTY, MO (2-minute read) — A deadly home invasion in rural Missouri has been officially ruled as a justified act of self-defense by local authorities.

According to the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a residence on County Road 244 just before midnight on Thursday, where they found 31-year-old John Fisher of East Prairie dead at the scene. Investigators say Fisher had gone to the home of Austin Glastetter, where his estranged wife was reportedly staying. Tensions quickly escalated when Fisher allegedly used brass knuckles to break glass and forcefully attempted entry through the door.

Sheriff Derick Wheetley reported that Glastetter warned Fisher multiple times that he was armed and instructed him to leave. Fisher, however, responded with a chilling threat: “You’ll have to kill me.” Fearing for his safety and for the safety of others inside the home, Glastetter fired six shots through the door, striking and killing Fisher.

After the shooting, Glastetter immediately called 911 and fully cooperated with authorities during their investigation. Sheriff Wheetley stated the incident met the legal standards of Missouri Revised Statutes Section 563.031, which allows for the justifiable use of force in defense of oneself or others.

Missouri’s Castle Doctrine Supports Self-Defense

Missouri is a “Castle Doctrine” state, meaning residents are legally allowed to use deadly force to protect themselves within their homes if they believe an intruder poses an imminent threat. In this case, Fisher’s violent entry attempt and refusal to back down gave Glastetter reasonable cause to act.

Brass knuckles, while considered a dangerous implement, further heightened the perceived threat level in this scenario. In many states, their use in a threatening or assaultive manner can justify a lethal defensive response when other means of escape or de-escalation are unavailable.

This is yet another story that serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of home defense, and the importance of understanding your legal rights and responsibilities when it comes to protecting your home.

Safety Tip: Always ensure that you fully understand your state’s self-defense and Castle Doctrine laws. Even in justified shootings, your legal responsibility doesn’t end when the threat is neutralized. Cooperation with law enforcement and a clear understanding of the events are essential.