Too Quick on the Draw

The fatal shooting of a 13 year old St. Louis boy who was rummaging through an unlocked car looking for 'change' with which to buy snacks has created a firestorm controversy and debate. Apparently the automobile was parked inside the homeowner's fenced property when the trespass occurred after the midnight hour.

As expected the controversy centers around the homeowner's property rights and perceived self-defense versus what some claim was the unnecessary use of excessive force with a firearm. Those supporting the shooter would argue he had every right to protect his property. The counter argument suggests the homeowner could have called police, made a noise or perhaps fired his gun into the air to scare off the intruder.

I would anticipate 'no charges.' However, a young life ends too soon.

 I recall the 12 year old pranks carried out by me and my neighborhood friends. We went into people's yards and turned over trash cans, we threw water-filled balloons at passing cars and opened front doors. I even recall setting fire to a bag-filled with feces on Mrs. Leroy's front stoop.

Thank goodness Mr. Jacknewitz and Mr. Vargo didn't shoot us.