WICHITA, KS — A late-night vehicle burglary in Wichita escalated into a shooting that left both a homeowner and a teenage suspect in critical condition, highlighting the dangers of confronting suspects outside the safety of the home.
Police say the incident occurred around 11:50 p.m. Saturday in the 400 block of South Vassar. Responding officers found a 30-year-old man and a 15-year-old boy suffering from gunshot wounds. Both were transported to a local hospital, where they remain in critical condition.
According to investigators, the 30-year-old homeowner went outside after spotting the teen rummaging through his vehicle. The suspect then fired a weapon, striking the homeowner. The homeowner returned fire, hitting the teen.
The homeowner has been identified as Kevin Norfleet, an English Language Arts teacher at Maize High School. The district released a statement wishing him a full recovery and noted the community is rallying around him and his family. A GoFundMe campaign has also been launched to support his medical expenses as he undergoes multiple surgeries and a lengthy rehabilitation process.
While Norfleet is receiving strong community support, this case also serves as a reminder of how quickly situations like this can turn violent. Stepping outside to confront suspects can expose homeowners to unknown dangers: multiple offenders, suspects who may be armed, or even willing to shoot someone over a car burglary. Vehicles and property can be replaced, but lives cannot. The safer choice is often to stay secure inside, arm yourself, and call the police.
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