LITTLE ROCK — A man who was stealing items from a home under construction was shot Sunday when the homeowner showed up during the crime, authorities said.
The Garland County sheriff's office says 35-year-old Michael Freeman was taken into surgery after being shot in the abdomen. His condition wasn't clear.
Police say it happened about 4:45 p.m. when the homeowner and a witness showed up at the residence, 195 Vista View Point, and found Freeman and 44-year-old Anna Childers taking lumber and other building materials.
"When they confronted the suspects, a fight ensued," Lt. James Martin said in an e-mail. "During the struggle a gun was pulled by either the homeowner or witness. The male suspect grabbed the gun and attempted to gain control of it, during which time he was shot in the abdomen area."
Childers was arrested on charges of breaking or entering and theft of property. Freeman is expected to face similar charges once he is released from the hospital.
Authorities said Sunday night that they were still interviewing the homeowner and witness and that the case would ultimately be forwarded to the prosecutor's office to determine whether either will face any charges tied to the shooting.
