Paraplegic shot, killed armed intruder

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JOHNSTOWN, Ohio, July 23 (UPI) -- A paraplegic man in Ohio shot and killed a man who allegedly broke into his home, investigators said.

John Mutter, 33, was asleep in his Johnstown home and awoke to find a man pointing a gun at him early Sunday, The Columbus (Ohio) Dispatch reported.

Mutter, who lost the use of his legs after a car crash about a year ago, pulled a gun from under the covers and shot the intruder, said investigator George Ridgeway. The intruder died in the house.

"He kept a weapon nearby because he lived alone, and it was the only way to protect himself," Ridgeway said.

Ridgeway said the intruder entered Mutter's home through an unlocked door and picked up one of Mutter's own guns.

"It appears he was looking for medication, money or anything of value," Ridgeway said.

Johnstown police are investigating the incident.