Homeowner Shoots, Kills Armed Intruder During Attempted Burglary in Manatee County
BRADENTON, Fla. — A homeowner in the Lakewood Ranch area of Manatee County fatally shot one of two masked intruders during an attempted burglary late Thursday night, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) confirmed.
The incident occurred around 9 p.m. in the 6700 block of Hickory Hammock Circle. Authorities say the homeowner, alerted by motion detected on his surveillance system, encountered two masked men attempting to break into his home.
Sheriff Rick Wells provided details in a Friday news conference, explaining that the homeowner acted quickly to protect his family. “He told his wife to find a safe place and armed himself,” Wells said. “This is the state of Florida. If you want to break into someone’s home, you should expect to be shot.”
Suspects Identified
The suspect who was fatally shot has been identified as 27-year-old Jorge Nestevan Flores-Toledo, also known as Anibal Miller-Valencia, a Mexican national with a criminal history. Authorities revealed that Miller-Valencia had an active warrant for a parole violation and was considered armed and dangerous. He previously served time for residential burglary in Oak Brook, Illinois, before being released on parole in November.
Miller-Valencia was struck multiple times during the confrontation and later succumbed to his injuries at Sarasota Memorial Hospital.
The second suspect, 39-year-old Michel Soto-Mella, fled the scene but was apprehended a few blocks away by a K9 unit. Soto-Mella, originally from Chile, had overstayed a 90-day visa that expired in September.
Charges Pending
Soto-Mella has been charged with armed burglary, and authorities are considering additional charges, including felony murder, as his accomplice died during the commission of a crime.
“We’re trying to gather all the details from the surviving suspect,” Wells stated. “While he’s cooperating to some extent, he’s not revealing everything.”
Community Reaction
The incident has left residents in the typically quiet neighborhood on edge. Neighbor John Nuceder, who was visiting a family member nearby, recounted hearing the gunshots. “I vividly heard three gunshots. It’s unsettling to have this happen here,” Nuceder said.
The Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation to determine the motives behind the attempted break-in. In the meantime, they are urging homeowners to remain vigilant.
Legal and Safety Precautions
Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” law permits residents to use deadly force to protect themselves against intruders in their homes. Sheriff Wells emphasized the importance of preparedness, advising residents to install security systems, avoid leaving valuables in plain sight, and know their rights.
Anyone with additional information about the incident is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers at (305) 471-TIPS.
