USA Carry

CHINO HILLS, CA — A homeowner in Chino Hills fired at an intruder after two unknown suspects broke into their residence on the evening of April 2, 2025. The incident occurred around 8:22 PM on the 2800 block of Venezia Terrace Drive and prompted a multi-agency law enforcement response.

According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, the suspects gained access to the home by shattering a second-floor glass door leading to a balcony. Once inside, at least one of the intruders encountered the armed homeowner, who discharged a firearm at the suspect. It is currently unclear if the suspect was struck.

Deputies from the Chino Hills Station, assisted by the Chino Police Department and the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Specialized Enforcement Division, conducted a full sweep of the residence. Although law enforcement initially believed at least one suspect remained inside, no intruders were found during the search. Authorities then expanded the perimeter and searched the surrounding area but were unable to locate the suspects.

The investigation remains ongoing, and the suspects’ identities are still unknown. No injuries to the homeowner were reported, and it is not known if the suspects were injured during the incident.

This incident highlights the importance of being prepared, especially in one’s own home. The homeowner’s ability to respond to a sudden, unlawful entry likely helped stop the crime before it escalated further. Homeowners are reminded that any use of deadly force must meet the legal standard of defending oneself or others from an imminent threat of death or serious bodily harm. As always, training and situational awareness are critical components of responsible firearm ownership.

Read the original story: Homeowner Fires at Intruders During Second-Floor Break-In Attempt in Chino Hills, CA

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-ID) and Representatives Darrell Issa (R-CA) and Richard Hudson (R-NC) introduced the Freedom from Unfair Gun Taxes Act on March 27, 2025. The proposed legislation would prohibit states from imposing excise taxes on firearms and ammunition when those taxes are used to fund gun control programs.

According to Senator Risch, the bill is intended to counter what he described as attempts by certain states to “exploit the Second Amendment” by financially burdening law-abiding gun owners. “The Freedom from Unfair Gun Taxes Act ensures states do not place a significant financial burden on law-abiding gun owners to advance their anti-Second Amendment agenda,” said Risch.

Representative Issa echoed the sentiment, pointing to California’s recently enacted 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition. “The latest attack is California’s imposition of a ‘sin tax’ on firearms and ammunition. This outrageous and unfair burden on law-abiding citizens is why Sen. Risch, Rep. Hudson, and I are working to stop this,” he said.

Representative Hudson added, “Their latest scheme is an unconstitutional tax that seeks to price you out of your right to keep and bear arms.”

California implemented its 11% excise tax in 2024, explicitly designed to discourage gun purchases and fund gun control initiatives. Colorado is set to follow with a 6.5% excise tax beginning in April 2025. Other states, including Maryland, Vermont, New York, Massachusetts, Washington, and New Mexico, have introduced similar proposals.

The bill has garnered support from a coalition of Republican lawmakers, including Senators Mike Crapo (R-ID), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), and Lindsey Graham (R-SC), among others. It has also been endorsed by national organizations including the National Rifle Association (NRA), National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), and Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation.

John Commerford, Executive Director of the NRA Institute for Legislative Action, called the bill a necessary response to a growing trend. “California and Colorado have already implemented a gun tax to fund their gun control efforts and dismantle the Second Amendment,” he said. “Senator Risch’s bill would prevent these blatant and egregious attacks on the rights of Americans.”

This legislation underscores the growing tension between state-level gun control measures and federal-level protections of the Second Amendment. While states have broad authority to tax, this bill would carve out an exception when those taxes directly target constitutionally protected rights.

Efforts to impose financial barriers to firearm ownership have drawn sharp criticism from Second Amendment advocates, who argue that the right to keep and bear arms should not be contingent on one’s ability to pay additional taxes. If passed, the Freedom from Unfair Gun Taxes Act would be a significant step toward ensuring that constitutional rights cannot be undermined through fiscal policy.

Read the original story: Lawmakers Propose Nationwide Ban on Gun and Ammo Taxes

RALEIGH, NC — A newly introduced bill in the North Carolina General Assembly aims to significantly expand Second Amendment protections and improve firearm storage options in schools. House Bill 674, titled The Firearms Liberty Act, was filed on April 1, 2025, by Representatives Adams, Kidwell, Eddins, and Carson Smith. The legislation cleared its first reading in the House on April 3 and has been referred to the Judiciary 2 Committee.

1. Lifetime Concealed Handgun Permits One of the central provisions of the bill allows for the issuance of lifetime concealed handgun permits. Currently, North Carolina concealed carry permits are valid for five years. The new option would allow qualified individuals to apply for a permit that does not expire, reducing the burden on law-abiding citizens to renew.

2. Simplified Renewal for Lapsed Permits Under the proposed law, concealed carry holders whose permits have expired within the last 180 days would not be required to retake the firearms training course when renewing. If a permit has lapsed between 180 days and one year, sheriffs may still waive the training requirement at their discretion. This would streamline the renewal process and maintain continuity for responsible gun owners.

3. Firearm Storage Rights for Individuals Under Domestic Violence Protective Orders The bill would also allow individuals subject to domestic violence protective orders to store or sell their firearms through licensed firearms dealers instead of having them seized and stored solely by the sheriff’s office. This protects property rights while still complying with court orders and public safety concerns. Defendants may reclaim their property if legally permitted once the protective order is lifted.

4. Defensive Device Storage in Schools In response to growing concerns about school safety, the Act authorizes biometric safes containing defensive devices (such as pepper spray, electronic devices, or firearms) to be securely installed in schools. Access would be limited to specifically trained and authorized staff. Training requirements and device classifications would be developed by the Center for Safer Schools in conjunction with state agencies. Schools may also use existing safety grants to fund this initiative.

5. Additional Administrative Changes Other provisions include updates to permit application processes, fees, revocation procedures, and data-sharing with the State Bureau of Investigation. Military personnel will benefit from extended permit grace periods if deployment interrupts renewal timing.

House Bill 674 represents a broad attempt to enhance lawful self-defense options for North Carolinians while addressing practical issues faced by concealed carriers. By creating a lifetime permit option and reducing bureaucratic hurdles for renewals, the bill aligns with the interests of responsible gun owners who seek consistency and clarity in firearm laws.

Additionally, the school safety provisions offer an innovative approach by using biometric technology and training to restrict access to defensive devices—an option that balances preparedness with accountability.

As this bill progresses through committees, it will be watched closely by both Second Amendment advocates and those concerned with school and public safety policy.

Read the original story: North Carolina’s “Firearms Liberty Act” Introduced: Lifetime Concealed Carry Permits and Defensive Devices in Schools Proposed

HOUSTON, TX — A suspect was shot in the leg late Wednesday night after allegedly being caught rummaging through a storage unit in southwest Houston, according to local authorities.

As reported by ABC13, the incident occurred near Almeda and West Fuqua when two individuals arrived at their storage unit and encountered an unknown man going through their belongings. The suspect, reportedly wearing gloves, was confronted by the unit owners. During the confrontation, police say the man made a sudden movement and reached into his pocket, prompting one of the bystanders to draw a firearm and shoot the suspect in the leg.

The wounded individual was transported to a nearby hospital and is expected to recover. Law enforcement officials indicated that the armed bystander may not face any charges at this time, though the investigation remains ongoing.

In situations like this, the legality of using deadly force hinges on whether the defender reasonably believed there was an imminent threat of serious bodily harm or death. While a sudden or suspicious movement—such as a suspect reaching into a pocket—can elevate concern, it alone does not automatically justify the use of deadly force. The defender must be able to articulate specific facts that made the threat appear immediate and deadly, based on the totality of the circumstances.

Read the original story: Armed Bystander Shoots Suspect During Attempted Storage Unit Theft in Houston

ARLINGTON, TX — A 63-year-old woman was fatally stabbed late Monday night in an Arlington apartment complex, despite the efforts of an armed neighbor who attempted to intervene during the attack.

Around 11:58 p.m. on March 31, 2025, Arlington police responded to multiple reports of gunfire at an apartment complex in the 2600 block of Whisper Meadow Lane. When officers arrived, they discovered Erma Adeyemo Azeez lying unresponsive in a breezeway. She was transported to a local hospital, where she was later pronounced deceased.

A 37-year-old resident told police he heard the woman screaming for help and retrieved a firearm before going to investigate. He reported seeing a man attacking her with a sharp object. The resident said he pointed his firearm at the suspect, announced his intention to shoot, and fired a round into the ground. The suspect then fled the area on foot.

Police later identified the suspect as 23-year-old Jacob Arriaga Guerrero, who was on probation at the time and wearing an ankle monitor. Authorities received a tampering alert from his device, and GPS data confirmed he was at the scene during the time of the attack. Multiple witness descriptions also matched his appearance.

The following morning, Arlington officers responded to a hit-and-run at Walnut Hill Circle and Burney Road involving a stolen SUV. The vehicle struck a pedestrian walking a dog and collided with another car before fleeing. The pedestrian and driver were not seriously injured, and the dog sustained an injury to its leg.

With assistance from the department’s Real Time Crime Center, officers located the stolen vehicle nearby and took Guerrero into custody. He was initially charged with Aggravated Assault, Collision Involving Injury, Animal Cruelty, and Theft of a Motor Vehicle.

Following confirmation from the Tarrant County Medical Examiner that Ms. Azeez died from stab wounds, police upgraded the charge to Murder in consultation with the Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office.

The investigation is ongoing.

This incident underscores the complex decisions armed citizens may face when responding to violent situations. Even when responding quickly, outcomes can be unpredictable and tragic. In any self-defense scenario, understanding the legal boundaries of use of force, maintaining composure, and ensuring safety for oneself and others are all critical components of responsible gun ownership.

Read the original story: Armed Neighbor Tried to Intervene in Fatal Stabbing at Texas Apartment Complex

SLIDELL, LA — A home invasion in the Slidell area on the evening of March 31 resulted in two individuals being charged, including one of the homeowners, after shots were fired during and after the altercation.

According to the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a disturbance at a residence in the 42000 block of U.S. Highway 190 East. Investigators determined that 52-year-old Tyrone Mercadel had forcibly entered the home by kicking in the door and then physically assaulted the female homeowner inside.

A struggle followed as the homeowners attempted to remove Mercadel from the house. During the altercation, the female homeowner fired two rounds in self-defense, striking Mercadel in the leg.

Mercadel fled the scene on foot but not before the male homeowner, identified as 53-year-old Wayne Mercadel, fired several rounds at the tires of the suspect’s vehicle in an apparent attempt to prevent him from escaping before law enforcement arrived.

Detectives later located Tyrone Mercadel nearby. He was transported to a local hospital for treatment of his injuries. A warrant for his arrest was issued, and he will be booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center upon his release on one count of Aggravated Burglary.

Wayne Mercadel was also taken into custody Monday night and charged with Aggravated Criminal Damage to Property. Authorities emphasized that the incident was not random, and that Tyrone Mercadel was known to the homeowners—though the exact nature of their relationship was not disclosed.

This case underscores an important legal and tactical consideration for armed citizens: the use of deadly force is generally only justified when there is an imminent threat of death or serious bodily harm. Shooting at a fleeing suspect, especially by targeting a vehicle’s tires, is not only legally risky—it’s physically dangerous. Bullets can ricochet off pavement or wheel rims, potentially injuring bystanders or the shooter themselves. In this incident, the male homeowner’s decision to fire at the tires led to criminal charges, despite the initial justification for defensive action inside the home.

Read the original story: Home Invasion Leads to Gunfire and Arrests—Homeowner Charged After Shooting at Fleeing Suspect’s Tires

PHILADELPHIA, PA — TSA officers at Philadelphia International Airport stopped a Media, Pennsylvania man from bringing a loaded firearm through a security checkpoint on Monday, March 31. The 9mm handgun, containing 14 rounds, was detected during routine screening. Philadelphia Police responded, confiscated the weapon, and issued the traveler a citation.

In addition to local penalties, the traveler now faces a federal civil fine, which TSA notes can stretch into the thousands of dollars. The agency emphasized that firearms — loaded or unloaded — are strictly prohibited in carry-on bags, even for those with concealed carry permits.

“It is disappointing to continue to see travelers bring their firearms to our checkpoints,” said Gerardo Spero, TSA’s Federal Security Director for the airport. “If you must travel with your gun, there’s a way to do so. The proper way to do it is to make sure it’s unloaded, packed in a hard-sided locked case and taken to the airline check-in counter.”

So far in 2025, TSA officers at Philadelphia International have detected nine firearms at security checkpoints. In 2024, the number reached 40.

Incidents like this serve as a vital reminder for responsible gun owners: double-check your bags before heading to the airport. Especially if you’re using luggage that may have previously carried a firearm, it’s easy to forget a loaded magazine or even the firearm itself. This can lead to serious legal and financial consequences — and potentially the loss of TSA PreCheck privileges.

If you’re unsure how to fly with a firearm, I break it down step-by-step in my ongoing YouTube series on flying with firearms. With 14 episodes published so far and a new one released every Tuesday, I document the entire process — from declaring a firearm at the airline counter to retrieving it at baggage claim. It’s a practical, real-world look at how to travel legally and responsibly as a gun owner. You can check out the series here: Flying With Firearms Playlist

Also, make use of the free myTSA app or reach out to @AskTSA on Twitter or Facebook Messenger to confirm whether your items are travel-safe. A few extra minutes of preparation can save you from serious trouble.

Stay safe, stay responsible, and fly smart.

Read the original story: TSA Stops Armed Traveler at Philly Airport — Let This Be a PSA for Responsible Travel

EAST BATON ROUGE, LA — A man was shot in the arm early Saturday morning after confronting two individuals allegedly attempting to break into vehicles outside his home, according to the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies responded to the 8800 block of Mable Drive around 1 a.m. on March 29 following reports of a shooting. Authorities say the resident noticed two males allegedly trying to burglarize vehicles in the neighborhood and decided to confront them directly.

Rather than calling law enforcement and maintaining a safe distance, the man—accompanied by two others—followed the suspects to the end of nearby Marionette Drive. At that point, one of the suspects opened fire, hitting the man in the arm. The group returned fire, and the suspects fled on foot. Their identities remain unknown at this time.

The man’s injury was not life-threatening, and he is expected to recover. However, the situation could have ended far worse.

Confronting suspected criminals—especially at night and without knowing if they are armed—is extremely dangerous. In this case, what began as an effort to stop a property crime quickly escalated into a gunfight. While it’s understandable to feel protective of one’s property, it’s critical to remember that physical possessions can be replaced—your life cannot.

This incident serves as a stark reminder: no vehicle or piece of property is worth risking your life over. The safest and most responsible course of action in situations like these is to observe from a safe distance and alert authorities. Thankfully, this man survived. But many others in similar situations haven’t been as fortunate.

Read the original story: Man Shot After Confronting Suspected Vehicle Burglars in Baton Rouge

FRANKLIN COUNTY, VA — A suspected home intruder was shot during a confrontation with a homeowner in the 100 block of Blue Spruce Drive on the night of March 30, according to the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies responded to the scene around 9:30 p.m. after receiving a report of a shooting. Upon arrival, they found a male subject who had reportedly entered another person’s property and became involved in an altercation with the homeowner. During the incident, the homeowner shot the intruder.

Law enforcement officers provided immediate medical assistance until EMS arrived. The injured individual was airlifted to a nearby hospital for further treatment. His current condition has not been released.

Investigators describe the case as an isolated incident and confirmed there is no ongoing threat to the public. As of now, no criminal charges have been filed, though the investigation remains active.

Self-defense situations can unfold quickly, especially when someone unlawfully enters a home. This incident underscores the importance of being prepared to defend oneself from imminent threats. Homeowners are within their rights to use deadly force if they reasonably believe they or others face serious bodily harm or death. However, every defensive gun use must be followed by full cooperation with authorities and a clear understanding of applicable state laws.

Read the original story: Suspect Breaks Into Home, Gets Shot by Homeowner During Confrontation

SMYRNA, GA — In an unprecedented move, Glock has announced the release of its Gen 6 line of pistols, incorporating a series of enhancements that directly address the most common critiques from firearm enthusiasts and professionals alike. This groundbreaking development marks a significant evolution in Glock’s commitment to user-centric design and innovation.​

Responding to widespread feedback regarding the grip angle, the Gen 6 models feature a re-engineered design that promotes a more natural point of aim. This adjustment aims to enhance shooter comfort and accuracy, catering to a broader range of users who previously found the traditional Glock grip angle less intuitive.​

Embracing modularity, Glock introduces a pioneering Firearm Control Unit (FCU) in the Gen 6 series. This innovation allows users to effortlessly swap the FCU into various grip modules, enabling customization of frame size and ergonomics to suit individual preferences and mission-specific requirements.​

The Gen 6 line boasts an upgraded Modular Optic System (MOS) designed for seamless compatibility with all existing and future optic footprints. This advancement eliminates the need for multiple adapter plates, simplifying the integration of preferred optics and enhancing the versatility of the platform.​

Addressing concerns about grip security, especially in adverse conditions, Glock has developed a new grip texture for the Gen 6 models. This texture provides a more secure and comfortable hold, reducing slippage and improving control during rapid fire or in wet environments.​

Beyond these major upgrades, Glock has also tackled other prevalent user concerns:​

By integrating these user-requested features, Glock demonstrates a proactive approach to evolving its product line in alignment with the needs and preferences of the shooting community. The Gen 6 series stands as a testament to Glock’s dedication to innovation, reliability, and responsiveness to its user base.​

Alright, if you’ve made it this far with your jaw on the floor—surprise! While we’d all love to see some of these features in the future, the Gen 6 line described above is pure April Fools’ fun. Glock has always stayed true to its own proven design philosophy, and whether you love it as-is or dream of modular frames and grip angle tweaks, there’s no denying its track record of reliability. For now, we’ll keep dreaming—and maybe polishing our Gen 5s a little extra today.

Read the original story: Glock Unveils Revolutionary Gen 6 Pistols Addressing Long-Standing User Feedback