Unless someone can pinpoint this story, we can only speculate.
In many states, it is illegal to use deadly force against a burglar unless he is threatening your life or the life of another person. I don't know for sure about California.
Here are some other scenarios where this homeowner could get into trouble:
- Burglar was unarmed, halfway out the door, and did not pose a threat.
- Burglar was cowering in the corner, wimpering, "Please don't kill me."
- Homeowner was a convicted felon, legally prohibited from touching a firearm to save his life.
- Homeowner had outstanding unrelated warrants.
- Police found other illegal activity such as drugs.
- Homeowner was an illegal immigrant.
BTW, many targets of home invasions are innocent victims, but sometimes they are drug dealers or otherwise involved in criminal activity. If a robber can get away with robbing a drug dealer, the victim is not likely to report the crime to the police. He may track down the robber and kill him, though.
- Jim
Fear, anger, hatred, and greed. The devil's all-you-can-eat buffet.