Understanding the line between self defense and murder

Byron David Smith
This Nov. 23, 2012, photograph provided by the Morrison County Sheriff's Office shows Byron David Smith. The Morrison County man has been arrested after he told police he shot and killed two teenagers who he said were breaking into his home on Thanksgiving Day.
AP Photo/Morrison County Sheriff's Office

Authorities are still sifting through the details surrounding a shooting that took place on Thanksgiving day in Little Falls. Two teenagers apparently broke into the home of Byron Smith where he says he shot and killed them. He has since been charged with two counts of second-degree murder.

In Minnesota it's legal to own a gun and even shoot an intruder in the name of self-defense but taking the life of another person is a more complicated matter. MPR's Cathy Wurzer spoke with Hamline law professor Joseph Olson who has studied self-defense laws and teaches self defense courses, including how to handle a gun.

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.