General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: Homeowner caught on tape "finishing off" teen burglars. Murder or self defense? [View all]spin
(17,493 posts)to come to you. Of course, if possible you should contact the police and stay on the line with them.
For example assume that you are in your bedroom behind a locked door and you hear definite sounds that indicate that intruders have entered. Assume further that you do not have other family members to be concerned about.
Playing Wyatt Earp and clearing your home could give the intruders the advantage as they may hear you coming and ambush you.
If the intruders break down your bedroom door and enter, you should have enough time to be absolutely certain that they have no right to be in your house. I believe that in most states you have the right to use lethal force to defend yourself against a home invader.
Once they are no longer a threat, your right to use deadly force has ended. If you successfully stop their attack, you have no right to execute them afterward.
It's not a bad idea to have a cell phone in your bedroom. In passing a shotgun is an excellent weapon in such a situation.