ST. LOUIS – A 15-year-old burglary suspect in St. Louis is dead after being shot by the homeowner.
Demetrius Murphy was killed around 1:30 a.m. Friday in the back yard of a home near Gravois Park.
Police say Murphy and a 17-year-old were trying to burglarize the home. The 33-year-old male homeowner went outside to investigate and reportedly shot Murphy as Murphy approached him.
The homeowner's name has not been released. Police say the shooting appears to be justified.
A state law known as the castle doctrine allows people who encounter an intruder in their homes or vehicles to use deadly force without fear of being charged or sued.
The 17-year-old accomplice could face murder charges because Murphy died during a burglary.
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