CLEARLAKE, Calif. – The Clearlake Police Department is investigating a Wednesday afternoon incident in which a man who allegedly forced his way into a home was shot by one of the residents.
Sgt. Rodd Joseph said officers responded to the report of the shooting in the 4600 block of W. 40th Street shortly after 1 p.m. Wednesday.
The man who called police, identified as Christopher Charles, said he had just shot an intruder in his home, Joseph said.
When officers arrived at the residence, Charles was found on scene and was cooperative with investigators. Joseph said Charles lives in the residence with his elderly mother.
The alleged intruder, whose name is being withheld due to medical reasons, already had fled the scene on foot by the time police arrived, Joseph said.
Within a few minutes, officers located the male suspect in the 14600 block of Uhl Avenue. Joseph said the man had a gunshot wound to his upper torso that was not life-threatening.
During interviews with police, the alleged intruder made inconsistent statements, Joseph said. Investigators also learned that the man and Charles are familiar with each other and have had prior contact.
Joseph said the male suspect was transported by ambulance to St. Helena Hospital Clear Lake for medical treatment, and he additionally was placed on a mental health evaluation.
Investigators believe that suspect forced his way into Charles' residence and that Charles shot the alleged intruder in self-defense, Joseph said.
The firearm used in the incident was seized by investigators, and Joseph said Charles was released on scene, pending the outcome of the investigation. The suspect in the case has not yet been charged.
Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact the Clearlake Police Department at 707-994-8251; Det. Travis Lenz can be reached at Extension 315 and Det. Ryan Peterson can be reached at Extension 320. Callers may remain anonymous.