Suspected burglar killed by business owner

(3/20/07 - KTRK/HOUSTON) (KTRK) -- A business owner killed one of two men who he says broke into his business this morning.

It happened at the KC Steel Fabricators on John Martin Road near Baytown. Authorities say theft has apparently become a big problem along John Martin Road. But nearby residents say to the best of their knowledge, this is the first time it's ever turned violent.

There were some exposed racks holding expensive metal sheets used by fabricators at the business. Around 3am, the owner of the business heard the alarm, grabbed a handgun and walked outside to investigate.

"He found two suspects stealing stainless steel at the back of his business," said homicide investigator Sgt. Bryan Pair.

The shop owner confronted the men and opened fire, hitting their fleeing late model Ford pickup at least four times. They crashed through a fence and made tracks through a field, where it coasted to a stop about a hundred yards away.

"One suspect was deceased while the second suspect fled on foot," said Pair.

The dead suspect was found slumped over in the truck. He's described as an Hispanic male in his late 40s or early 50s. Investigators say they found no indication that the thieves were armed.

Employee Johnny Sanders says the owner he identified as Kevin Ackard had installed security measures and was sleeping inside the business because of all of the recent thefts.

"Last time, Kevin told me it was about $35,000 worth of stuff that they got already," said Sanders.

Investigators believe eight shots were fired.

"He's mad at the whole situation," said Sanders. "He's pretty upset."

Texas law is pretty forgiving when it comes to homeowners and property owners trying to defend their own property. But a grand jury will have to decide whether the business owner will face any charges.

Authorities are still trying to track down the suspect who managed to flee the scene.
(Copyright © 2007, KTRK-TV)

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