HARRISBURG, PA — A man who defended himself during a violent attack inside a Harrisburg home will face no charges, according to Dauphin County District Attorney Fran Chardo.
The incident happened on the morning of January 10 inside a home on the 1200 block of Walnut Street. Police say 64-year-old Franklin Roosevelt Lee—who had previously served over 35 years in prison for third-degree murder and rape—attacked another man while armed with a handgun.
During the struggle, Lee’s gun discharged and hit the victim. The victim, who was also armed, drew his own pistol and returned fire, fatally shooting Lee.
After reviewing the case, District Attorney Chardo said the use of deadly force was lawful and necessary.
“This was a clear case of self-defense,” Chardo stated. “The victim acted within his rights under Chapter 5 of the Crimes Code, which allows the use of force to protect oneself from unlawful violence.”
Lee, a convicted felon, was on parole until 2054 and was prohibited from possessing a firearm. Authorities confirmed he was not legally allowed to have the gun used in the attack.
The man who shot Lee has not been publicly identified but fully cooperated with police and gave a detailed statement about what happened.
Chardo emphasized that although the coroner ruled the case a homicide, that term simply means a death caused by another person—not that a crime was committed.
For many in the Second Amendment community, this case reinforces a simple truth: when seconds count, being armed can mean the difference between life and death.
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If you get shot first in your own home by home invader….or ATF goons, your tactics’n’prep SUCK!!!!
You’d think that 35+ years in prison would have magically turned a murderer/rapist into a model citizen. Just imagine high moral character of the average inmate, and the exposure to culture and arts that one would be exposed to.
Ya know, the fact that this type of situation has to “be investigated” is ridiculous. The victim was attacked & shot INSIDE HIS OWN HOME!!! Why is this a question?!
Good job for taking out the trash!
Tax $$$ Saved. Next.
one more for law and order