Homeowner: I Shot Teen Seeking Help Accidentally

He tells cops gun discharged by accident, killing Renisha McBride
By Evann Gastaldo,  Newser Staff
Posted Nov 8, 2013 6:42 AM CST
Homeowner: I Shot Teen Seeking Help Accidentally
Renisha McBride (family photo)   (YouTube)

The homeowner who allegedly shot and killed a Detroit teen after her car crashed and she sought help at his house told police it was an accident, the Detroit Free Press reports. Renisha McBride's family has said the 19-year-old was shot in the back of the head as she turned to leave, but police say that's not true. "She was shot in the front of the face," says one detective. The homeowner says he initially believed McBride was breaking into his house. The shotgun has been seized by police for analysis; the homeowner remains free.

McBride's family also disputes reports claiming the homeowner called police; family members say neighbors reported the shooting. Another mystery: McBride's accident occurred around 1:30am and she showed up on the porch around 3:40am; it's not clear what she was doing during the time in between. The NAACP wants the incident "investigated at every level." The county prosecutor's office and police are investigating as they decide whether to file charges. Last night, supporters rallied for McBride outside the Dearborn Heights police station, Reuters reports. (More shooting stories.)

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