WAYNE COUNTY, N.C. (WTVD) -- A suspect who was breaking into a home in Wayne County was shot early Saturday morning, authorities said.
It happened around 4:15 a.m. in the 200 block of Little River Drive.
Deputies said the homeowner and his family were asleep in bed when their home alarm was activated. After checking it, the homeowner didn't find anything wrong and went back to bed.
The alarm went off again and when the homeowner went to check it again, he was surprised by a man with a gun, according to authorities.
Deputies said the homeowner defended himself and the suspect was wounded after the gun went off during the struggle. The homeowner called law enforcement and the suspect was taken to the hospital where he later died.
The suspect was identified as 32-year-old Jeremy Batson.
The homeowner is not expected to be charged.
If anyone has information they are asked to contact the Wayne County Sheriff's Office at (919) 731-1481.