In a case of self-defense, a 14-year-old boy in Manchester, Kentucky, shot and killed two armed men who allegedly broke into his home to steal firearms from a safe. According to authorities, the incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday, February 16, while the teenager was home alone. The Kentucky State Police (KSP) and Manchester Police Department are investigating the case.
Teenager Acted in Self-Defense
A statement from the Kentucky State Police revealed that the teenager noticed the intruders inside the house and saw that they were armed. Acting in self-defense, he retrieved a handgun—reportedly owned by his father—and fired at the suspects before escaping through a bedroom window. Manchester Police Chief Jeff Couch confirmed that no other residents were present in the home at the time of the incident.
The intruders were identified as Roger D. Smith, 44, and Jeffrey M. Allen, 51, according to USA Today. Smith was transported to Advent Health Manchester, where he succumbed to his injuries, while Allen was pronounced dead at the scene. The Clay County coroner’s office conducted autopsies on Monday to confirm the cause of death.
The shooting was reported at 4:24 a.m. local time when the Clay County 911 emergency system received a call about gunfire at a residence in Manchester. Upon arrival, Manchester police officers found the two men wounded and requested assistance from the Kentucky State Police. Preliminary reports indicate that the suspects intended to steal firearms stored in a safe inside the home.
Teen Faces No Charges
Police Chief Jeff Couch stated that the teenager is not in custody. However, authorities are investigating how he accessed the firearm and the circumstances surrounding the shooting. While it has been confirmed that the handgun belonged to the boy’s father, officials have not disclosed whether it was securely stored.
Kentucky State Police have not released further statements, and the investigation remains ongoing. News outlets such as NBC News and USA Today report that law enforcement is continuing to gather evidence and witness testimonies to clarify all aspects of the case.
Legal and Safety Concerns
The incident has sparked discussions due to the boy’s age and the circumstances of the shooting. Kentucky law allows the use of deadly force in certain self-defense situations, but the case raises broader questions about firearm storage and minors’ access to weapons. Authorities have not indicated whether charges related to firearm storage will be pursued or if any legal action will be taken against the minor’s family.