Kissimmee Burglary Suspect Shot by Homeowner in Self-Defense, Deputies Say

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — A home invasion in Kissimmee ended with a suspect hospitalized and arrested after a homeowner shot him in self-defense. The Osceola County Sheriff's Office reported that the intruder, identified as 28-year-old David Martinez-Estrada, forced his way into a bedroom where a family was seeking shelter.

Homeowner Protects Family During Burglary in Progress

The incident took place on the morning of May 21, 2024, at a residence on Royal Palm Drive in Kissimmee. Deputies responded to emergency calls reporting a burglary in progress. When law enforcement arrived, they located the suspect, Martinez-Estrada, inside the house and ordered him to surrender. Instead of complying, the suspect retreated deeper into the residence.

Intruder Confrornts Locked Bedroom Door

Inside, a woman and her family had locked themselves in a bedroom to escape the intruder. Martinez-Estrada allegedly forced open the bedroom door and attempted to enter. Fearing for her life and the safety of her family, the female homeowner fired a handgun, striking Martinez-Estrada.

Arrest, Hospitalization, and Self-Defense Ruling

Following the shooting, the suspect fled the home and was quickly detained by deputies waiting outside. He was transported to a local hospital for medical treatment of non-life-threatening gunshot wounds. Investigators confirmed that the homeowner acted in accordance with Florida's self-defense laws, specifically the 'Stand Your Ground' doctrine, which protects citizens using force to defend their occupied dwellings.

After being cleared from the hospital, Martinez-Estrada was booked into the Osceola County Jail. He has been charged with several offenses, including:

• Unarmed burglary of an occupied dwelling
• Criminal mischief
• Stalking
• Resisting an officer without violence

The investigation remains active, and deputies have praised the homeowner's quick thinking in protecting her family from a direct threat.