A resident of Bradenton, Florida, successfully thwarted a late-night home invasion, resulting in the death of one intruder and the arrest of another. The incident, which took place on Thursday night, has left the local community both shocked and reassured by the homeowner’s decisive action.
Manatee County Sheriff Rick Wells commended the homeowner for his quick response, emphasizing that his actions were instrumental in safeguarding his family from the immediate danger. The homeowner and his wife were alerted to the intrusion by their security alarm, which led the homeowner to direct his wife to a safe location while he confronted the intruders.
The intruders, who were masked and armed with a crowbar, had broken into the home located on Hickory Hammock Circle. The situation quickly escalated into a gunfire exchange, resulting in the shooting of 27-year-old Jorge Nacin Flores Toledo, also known as Annabelle Miller Valencia. Flores Toledo, who had a criminal history including a previous burglary arrest in Illinois and an outstanding warrant for a parole violation, later died from his injuries.
The second intruder, 39-year-old Michelle Soto Melo, initially fled the scene but was subsequently apprehended by a K-9 unit a few blocks away. Investigations revealed that Soto Melo had entered the United States on a now-expired 90-day visa from Chile and had recently traveled to Tampa.
Sheriff Wells suggested the potential for additional charges against Soto Melo, including felony murder, due to the death of his accomplice during the crime. Authorities are also investigating whether the pair had targeted other homes in the area.
During a court appearance, Soto Melo, who required a translator, remained in custody. He claimed that he did not possess a firearm during the incident, a point that authorities are still investigating.
Sheriff Wells reiterated Florida’s stance on home invasions, emphasizing that homeowners have the right to protect themselves against intruders. As the investigation continues, the community is left to reflect on the incident and its implications for local safety.