Homeowner Defends Against Home Invasion in Lakewood Ranch

Bradenton, Fla. – A Lakewood Ranch homeowner took swift action during a home invasion. Around 9 p.m., surveillance cameras detected motion outside the home on Hickory Hammock Circle. Spotting two masked intruders, the homeowner instructed his wife to find safety and armed himself.

One suspect, 27-year-old Jorge Nestevan Flores-Toledo, was shot and later died at Sarasota Memorial Hospital. Authorities revealed he was a fugitive with a parole violation warrant. The second suspect, Michel Soto-Mella, 39, was apprehended nearby and faces charges of armed burglary and felony murder due to his accomplice’s death.

Sheriff Rick Wells praised the homeowner’s quick thinking, stating, “This is Florida. If you break into someone’s home, expect to be shot.” Neighbors reported hearing gunshots, and MCSO continues to investigate the motives behind the crime.