San Jose: Police say burglary suspect was fatally shot by citizen trying to detain him [View all]

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Local newspaper just published this "armed citizen hero" story:

An attempt by an armed citizen to snag a man believed responsible for multiple vehicle break-ins at a large apartment complex went awry Monday when the suspected thief was shot and killed, police said.

"The preliminary investigation has revealed that the suspect shot the victim during an altercation," states the news release. "The shooting occurred as the suspect was attempting to detain the victim on suspicion of burglarizing vehicles in the neighborhood."

Witnesses at the complex reported hearing an argument, a single shot and screams. Emergency crews attempted to revive Soriano, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

San Jose police Officer Albert Morales said they encourage residents to be watchful, but to get authorities involved rather than attempt to catch suspected criminals themselves.

"Allow us to have the opportunity to go out and take care of it," he said. "There have been many times when we have arrived on scene and been successful apprehending numerous burglary suspects, while still inside the home or just afterward."

He added that citizens shouldn't resort to a potentially lethal confrontation "unless, of course, your life is in danger and you are acting in self-defense, then you have to do what you have to do."

Whose side are you on, the shooter or the police officer? Problem with Morales's statement is that the burglar may continue to harm the homeowner while the cops are on the way.