A violent home invasion in Rockingham County, Virginia, left two people dead late Sunday night. Authorities say the homeowner shot and killed the armed intruder after the attacker fatally stabbed the homeowner’s wife.
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ROCKINGHAM COUNTY, VA (3-minute read) — A violent late-night home invasion in Rockingham County, Virginia, ended in tragedy when two people were killed, including the armed intruder.
Authorities say the incident unfolded just before midnight on Sunday in the 13000 block of North Valley Pike. The homeowner, 65-year-old Michael Hatcher, called 911 after confronting an intruder inside his home. Deputies arrived to find Hatcher outside with visible injuries from a violent struggle.
Investigators report that the intruder, 41-year-old Kevin Moses Walker, fatally stabbed Hatcher’s wife, 62-year-old Holly Hatcher, before turning his attack on Michael. In an act of self-defense, Michael retrieved a firearm and shot Walker while attempting to escape the assault.
Both Holly Hatcher and Walker were pronounced dead at the scene. Sheriff Bryan Hutcheson described the crime as “highly unusual” and confirmed that, after consultation with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, no charges will be filed against Hatcher.
Self-Defense and Home Invasions in Virginia
Virginia law recognizes the right to use lethal force in self-defense when faced with an immediate threat of death or serious injury. While the Commonwealth does not have a formal “stand your ground” statute, individuals have no duty to retreat when attacked in their own home.
This incident is a tragic reminder of how quickly violent encounters can escalate and why situational awareness, secure home entry points, and knowledge of self-defense laws are crucial for gun owners.
Authorities have not yet determined whether Walker targeted the Hatchers or if the attack was random. The investigation remains ongoing.
Safety Tip: If you keep a firearm for home defense, store it in a quick-access safe near your sleeping area, ensuring it’s secure from unauthorized access but immediately available in an emergency.
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