The Armed Citizen® May 17, 2024

by
posted on May 17, 2024
** 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 violent rampage ended in Melrose, Fla., after an armed driver used his handgun in self-defense against a 26-year-old man who allegedly assaulted him.

On March 25, the 26-year-old suspect met with case managers from Florida's Department of Children and Families regarding the welfare of his 3-month-old baby. After going outside to get some air, the case manager heard the man screaming and found him squeezing the child. The man then took the baby and a Bible, began claiming he was "God" and walked toward a nearby state road.

A family member was able to grab the baby, and a local work crew attempted to restrain the crazed individual, but the man grabbed a shovel, jumped on top of a nearby vehicle and began hitting the windshield. The suspect then approached another man in a truck, opened the door and began beating the driver with the shovel, breaking the man's arm and the shovel in the process. The suspect then approached the driver again, holding the Bible in front of his chest.

The driver drew a firearm and shot three times, the bullets passing through the book and entering the suspect's chest. The attacker was airlifted to a local trauma center for treatment, and the driver was given medical care at a local hospital for his broken arm and multiple cuts. Police say the driver fired in self-defense and no charges are expected against him. (WCJB News; Melrose, Fla.; 3/25/24)

From the Armed Citizen® Archives – July 1971

Philip S. Summerhays, 27, noticed activity in a nearby parking lot when he arrived home late one night. Thinking somebody might be breaking into a car, he went to investigate and found a young man attempting to rape a 46-year-old woman. Summerhays drew a gun and held the man for police. (The Salt Lake Deseret News; Salt Lake City, Utah)

Latest

LCP Max Magpul 01
LCP Max Magpul 01

The LCP Meets Magpul: Ruger's LCP Max with Magpul's EHG

Over the years, Ruger has enhanced its LCP with the introduction of the LCP II and LCP Max. New for 2026, Ruger is offering a new version of the LCP Max with the addition of a Magpul Enhanced Handgun Grip.

Review: 945 Industries Q.A.P. Series Off-Body Carry Bag

Off-body carry can be somewhat controversial, but choosing the right gear can go a long way toward successful carry. One good option is the Q.A.P. Series of bags from 945 Industries.

At 75, CCI is Offering Even More

In 2026, CCI Ammunition—formally Cascade Cartridge, Inc.—marks its 75th anniversary with a fitting tribute to innovation and American ingenuity.

Gun of the Week: Powder River Precision Rubicon Icon

Powder River Precision has taken the basic Ruger 10/22 rifle concept and enhanced it with its Rubicon Icon design.

The Armed Citizen® May 1, 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.

Training & Gear for Active Shooter Response

For armed civilians, developing an active-shooter response plan isn’t about playing hero. It’s about having the right gear and the skills to decisively use them if violence finds you.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.