Burglary suspect shot dead by homeowner while trying to break into Phoenix residence

PHOENIX — A burglary suspect was shot and killed on Sunday while trying to force his way into a home, according to the Phoenix Police Department.

Kwame Hightower, 25, was pronounced dead at the scene, which was near Seventh and Glendale avenues, police said.

What happened before burglar shot dead in Phoenix?

Before the shooting, the homeowner called 911 around 7:43 a.m. to report that the man was in his backyard and trying to get into his house.

While he was on the phone with the 911 operator, the homeowner shot Hightower, police said.

Officers who responded to the scene directed the homeowner and his family, which included small children, to exit the home while they investigated.

Detectives took a statement from the homeowner and later released him from police custody.

Police said the ongoing investigation will be reviewed by the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office.

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