The Armed Citizen® January 22, 2021

When an intruder turned the handle to the bedroom door, a mother grabbed her toddler, armed herself and hid in the closet.

by posted on January 22, 2021
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
NRA Women The Armed Citizen Aiming A Pistol

A mother was lying down to nap with her 3-year-old one afternoon when she heard someone open her front door, enter and close it. When the intruder turned the knob on the handle to the bedroom, she immediately hid in the closet with her child, arming herself with a handgun. The intruder entered the bedroom and attempted to open the closet door, but the woman, in fear for her life and that of her child, shot two rounds into the door. The intruder was scared off, leaving no evidence that he was struck by a bullet. As of this writing, police were still investigating. The woman and child were unharmed, and nothing was stolen. (1011Now, Lincoln, Neb., 10/20/20)

A 29-year-old woman was home with her family on Christmas Day when an agitated neighbor, a 32-year-old male, confronted her and began an argument. The exchange between the two escalated, and he pushed his way into the woman’s apartment, where he began to assault her and her family. In defense of her family and herself, the woman drew her pistol and fired at the neighbor, striking him. The man was taken to a hospital with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound. (Sacramento.CBSLocal, Stockton, Ca., 12/26/20)

Latest

Rao Springtime Turkey Season Surprise Lede Istock 1248381746
Rao Springtime Turkey Season Surprise Lede Istock 1248381746

Spring Turkey Season Surprises

It is important for hunters to remember the threats that come with springtime in the woods.

New Gear 2026: Hunting & Outdoors, Safe Storage and Nifty Gifts

A combination of cool gadgets, gun storage options and unique gift items round out our coverage of our favorite finds from SHOT Show 2026.

His and Hers: Gifts for Outdoorsy Valentines

If your Valentine longs for chocolates or a dozen American Beauties—then this is not the gift guide for you. If he or she craves the outdoors, then read on!

4 Ready-to-Shoot Out-of-the-Box Rifle/Scope Combos We Love

Take most of the time and effort out of buying and mounting a scope with these rifle/scope packages.

The Truth About Knives for Self-Defense

If you’re going to carry a knife as a self-defense tool, you need to understand some critical considerations.

The Armed Citizen® January 30, 2026

There is only one way to respond if a mother is home alone at night with her baby—and an intruder breaks in.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.