Suspect shot by homeowner during burglary

LEWES, Del. - September 11, 2009 (WPVI) -- Police say a man in Lewes, Delaware shot a suspect trying to force his way into his home.

It happened in the 19000 block of Bee Jay Lane around 6:20 p.m. on Thursday.

Investigators say a 74-year-old man had just arrived home when he found the front door kicked in and the side door open. As he walked in the side door he found two suspects, Gregory Stewart, 49, of Lincoln, Delaware and Paul Spencer, 43, also of Lincoln.

Police say the supects told the homeowner they were "looking to purchase a dump truck." The 74-year-old told them to leave, but police say the men started to approach him.

Spencer then grabbed a landscaping tool and threatened the homeowner, who grabbed machete-type weapon and swung it at Spencer, striking him several times on his right forearm and hand.

Still, the two suspects continued to approach the victim, so police say he produced a .25 caliber handgun and fired twice at the intruders.

Stewart was shot in the abdomen.

Finally, both men fled the residence and a short time later Stewart was driven to Milford Hospital for treatment of the gunshot wound. Spencer was found and arrested at his home.

Stewart was listed in stable condition. Both men are facing numerous charges.

The homeowner was not hurt.

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