A career criminal in Illinois committed his final home break-in when he chose the wrong residence. The decision would ultimately cost the would-be burglar his life, as the homeowner, forced to hide in her bedroom closet with her baby, was armed and prepared to defend her family. The mother told police that about 10:30 p.m. she heard the sound of someone breaking into her home, which is when she retreated to her bedroom closet—armed with a handgun. When the man entered the bedroom, she told police she fired at him, hitting him in the head. When paramedics arrived, they discovered a deceased man who appeared to be suffering from gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Reports said he was wearing gloves and had a screwdriver among his possessions. It turns out the 36-year-old man had previously been convicted of burglaries and identity theft. "The information we have and the evidence found at scene indicates that Hurd was at the home to commit a burglary. What his motive was beyond that and why he chose this residence is still under investigation," Police Sgt. Dwayne English told local news. (theblaze.com; 8/21/25; Joliet, Ill.)
