The Armed Citizen® June 16, 2023

by
posted on June 16, 2023
** 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. **
The Armed Citizen

Armed Citizen® Today

A man and woman sitting inside a vehicle near a park in Kelso, Wash., were assaulted by two men, forcing the male driver of the car to defend himself and his companion on April 27, 2023.

At about 4:30 p.m. that Thursday, the man and woman were sitting inside their vehicle in the driveway of their house when a pair of men approached the car. One of the suspects, a 21-year-old male, approached the driver's side door, opened it and then allegedly began assaulting the man, accusing him of being in a rival gang. The driver drew a concealed handgun, exited the car during the assault and opened fire. The shot struck the other suspect, a 19-year-old male, and both subjects fled the scene.

Police responded and found the armed citzen, who acknowledged that he had fired a shot at the assault suspects. The armed citizen was temporarily detained while police obtained witness statements and video recording of the altercation, which supported his self-defense claim. He was released without charges.

The wounded assailant was located in a vehicle nearby with the other suspect and was taken to the hospital for treatment of minor injuries. Both suspects were booked into Cowlitz County Jail on charges of 4th Degree Assault and 2nd Degree Criminal Trespass. (Cowlitz County Sheriff's Office; Kelso, Wash.; 4/27/23)

From the Armed Citizen® Archives – July 1962

While making a routine check of his sporting goods store in Monahans, Texas, Lyle Saunders heard noises in a back room. He drew his gun, discovered a burglar at work, and held the intruder until police arrived. (Monahans News; Monahans, Texas)

Latest

ammo on table in shape of infinite loop
ammo on table in shape of infinite loop

The Infinite Argument: 9 mm vs. .45 ACP

We’re never going to end the seemingly eternal debate about whether 9 mm or .45 ACP is the best option for a defensive handgun, are we?

Review: Dark Mountain Arms Stowaway

Survival rifles have generally been chambered for relatively anemic rimfire cartridges, but the Dark Mountain Arms Stowaway ups the power without sacrificing portability.

The Armed Citizen® April 13, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

How the Mainstream Media is Changing on Guns

Given the record low public trust in mass media, what is its future, and is there any chance market forces could make its treatment of the Second Amendment fairer?

Number of New Suppressor Makers Increasing Rapidly

Companies that traditionally did not offer suppressors are adding them to their lineups at a scalding pace—including some major leaguers.

First Look: Steiner ATLAS Aiming & Illumination System

The Steiner ATLAS (Advanced Tactical Laser Aiming System) is a comprehensive, rifle-mounted aiming and illumination system in a lightweight magnesium-alloy body.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.