Police: Homeowner fatally shoots robbery suspect

WINTER HAVEN, Fla. — A robbery suspect is dead after a shooting inside a home in Polk County Monday morning.

Police responded to the home on Lake Marianna Drive in Winter Haven shortly before 7 a.m.

According to investigators, the family who lives at the home defended themselves when the suspect broke in.

"It appears at least two of the residents fired shots at the suspect in attempt to defend themselves," Winter Haven Police Chief Gary Hester said.

The Pena family heard someone trying to get into their home through the back door, police said. A family member fired a warning shot, but investigators said the burglar kept trying to break in. Two other residents also grabbed firearms and additional shots were fired. The unidentified suspect was fatally shot, according to police.

"People have the right to protect themselves and I imagine there are several folks along this street that have their guns ready and loaded now," neighbor Kenny Greenwell said.

Winter Haven police said the attempted home invasion and shooting are under investigation.

WFTV