A Tennessee woman who shot and killed a 38-year-old man who posed a threat to her and her minor children will not face charges, according to reports, as the shooting has been deemed justifiable self-defense and defense to third parties. In fact, the woman was commended for her brave actions by the District Attorney General, Chris Sanford. “As a result of the clear case of self-defense and defense of a third-party present here, no charges will be brought against Desiree Mears in connection with the shooting death described herein,” Stanford said in a press release. “I also want to commend Ms. Mears for her bravery as she acted under extreme pressure yet decided to protect herself and children from the imminent threat of serious bodily injury or death that she was imminently facing. It is never easy for victims of violence to stand up to those that are trying to hurt and kill them. However, Ms. Mears’ bravery last night likely saved her life and the lives of her children, and she is commended for her courage.” Requesting privacy for the victims, Sanford said, “It is never easy to take a life, even in the instance of a justified killing, such as this one.” (WSMV.com; McMinnville, TN; 6/13/23)
A woman arrived home after visiting with a friend when her husband began arguing with her. When the woman attempted to de-escalate the situation, it only made things worse, as her husband threw her to the ground and began shaking her. According to reports, the woman, in fear for her life, drew a pistol and shot her husband in the leg. The man was transported to a hospital for treatment, and is being held on $10,000 bail, charged with simple assault and harassment. The woman presented with bruises on her head and ribs, consistent with her story of her husband’s attack. (PAhomepage.com; Jessup, Pa., 8/12/22)
A woman was making a purchase at a gas station convenience store when her ex-boyfriend burst into the store and confronted her, instigating an argument that turned into an exchange of gunfire. The woman’s mother told reporters that her daughter was being stalked and harassed by her ex for a couple of months and that he tried to attack and rob her daughter, but she defended herself and shot back. Witnesses at the store reported a similar account, and that the incident was the latest in a series of shootings at metro Atlanta gas stations his year. (wsbtv.com; Dekalb County, Ga., 7/27/22)
