Bradenton resident shoots burglar with intruder's gun; suspect has 22 prior convictions

MANATEE -- A Bradenton homeowner late Tuesday used an intruder's own gun to shoot the would-be burglar, according to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Muhammad Solomon, 35, who was shot in the ankle, was treated at a local hospital, released and then taken to the Manatee County jail, according to a news release. He is being held on bonds totaling $27,500 on charges of armed burglary of a dwelling and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

At 10:30 p.m. the homeowner had called the sheriff's office and reported a burglary to his home in the 5600 block of 12th Street East, Bradenton, which is currently being remodeled. Deputies responded and filled out a report. The victim and a male friend then decided to stay at the home overnight.

At 11:27 p.m., the homeowner and his friend heard what sounded like someone trying to break into the home again, the arrest report states. The homeowner had heard a vehicle pull up and before going outside to investigate, he called his wife and asked her to call 911 since he doesn't speak English very well.

The homeowner then reportedly saw Solomon armed with what appeared to be a firearm walking the outside staircase to the second floor so he hid behind a tarp. He then came out of hiding, struck Solomon and knocked him to the ground, according to the sheriff's office.

When then homeowner saw Solomon reach behind his back, he feared for his life so he picked up Solomon's handgun and shot Solomon in the left ankle. He then threw the gun to the side and bear hugged Solomon until deputies arrived, according to the report.

The homeowner and his friend were temporarily detained after Solomon was taken away. Deputies located the .357 Magnum revolver.

Solomon has 22 prior felony convictions, the most recent possession of a controlled substance.

There were no injuries to the victims reported.

This story was originally published December 2, 2015 at 11:28 AM with the headline "Bradenton resident shoots burglar with intruder's gun; suspect has 22 prior convictions ."