A Florida homeowner fatally shot one intruder and injured another during a late-night break-in in Lakewood Ranch, prompting praise from law enforcement for his decisive actions against the armed assailants.

The late-night incident underscores rising concerns over home security as the homeowner successfully defended himself by shooting intruders who entered his property. The deceased assailant, 27-year-old Jorge Nestevan Flores-Toldeo, was armed and had a history of criminal activity, raising questions about safety for residents. Law enforcement officials commended the homeowner’s quick thinking, emphasizing the importance of the right to self-defense amid escalating burglary attempts.

The incident took place on a Thursday night, shortly after 9 p.m., when the homeowner, alerted by motion-activated surveillance cameras, noticed two men entering through the back of his home. He immediately informed his wife to hide before confronting the intruders, demonstrating his awareness of the potential threat.

Upon encountering the individuals, the homeowner fired at the assailants. Jorge Nestevan Flores-Toldeo was shot multiple times during the confrontation and later succumbed to his injuries at Sarasota Memorial Hospital. The second individual, Michel Soto-Mella, was apprehended nearby and subsequently charged with armed burglary.

Jorge Nestevan Flores-Toldeo, originally from Mexico, was 27 years old and was identified as the deceased intruder. Law enforcement revealed that he had an active warrant for a parole violation and had been considered armed and dangerous. This background raises significant concerns regarding the motivations behind the attempted break-in and the overall safety of the community.

Michel Soto-Mella, 39, was arrested shortly after the incident. According to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, Soto-Mella is in the United States illegally, having overstayed his visa from Chile. During his court hearing, Soto-Mella utilized a translator and claimed that he was unarmed at the time of the break-in, casting further uncertainty on the events of that night.

Local law enforcement has praised the homeowner for his actions in the face of danger. Manatee County Sheriff described the situation by stating, 'If you want to break into someone's home, you should expect to be shot.' This statement reflects the growing dialogue surrounding gun rights and self-defense laws in the state of Florida, where such incidents are not uncommon.

John Nuceder, a neighbor living nearby, reported hearing gunshots during the incident. His eyewitness account adds another layer to the narrative, illustrating the chaotic atmosphere that ensued as the homeowner defended himself. The swift response from law enforcement and the investigation that followed have been critical in piecing together the full story of the break-in.

Detectives are currently investigating Flores-Toldeo's background and the circumstances that prompted the attempted home invasion. Understanding the motivations behind the actions of the intruders is essential not only for resolving this case but also for assessing broader community safety concerns.

As the Manatee County Sheriff's Office continues its investigation, it has yet to determine if the homeowner will face any charges in connection with the shooting. In Florida, self-defense laws provide significant protections for individuals acting to defend their homes and lives, which may ultimately play a crucial role in the outcome of this case.