Accused arsonist and convicted sex offender Christopher Ray Foster, 37, was shot and killed in Van Zandt County, Texas, after he allegedly tried to break into a woman’s home, local media reports.
Authorities with the Van Zandt County Sheriff’s Office said that Foster was forcing his way into the home at around 4:30 a.m. on Tuesday when the homeowner discovered him. Fearing for her life, the woman fatally shot Foster. Shortly thereafter, she called 911 to report the incident.
Foster was wanted for questioning in relation to a structure fire on Monday. Authorities believed the cause of the fire was arson.
“The subject shot and killed was the suspect in the arson fire being investigated by the County Fire Marshal,” said Van Zandt County Fire Marshal/Emergency Management in a statement.
“The County Fire Marshal, along with the investigators with the Sheriff’s Office and Justice of the Peace were able to link the subject to the fire by physical evidence found on his person,” it continued.
Meanwhile, Sheriff Michael Lindsey Ray commended the woman for taking responsibility for her own safety.
“Presently, as the result of underfunding and inadequate staffing at the Van Zandt County Sheriff’s Office, homeowners need to take appropriate precautions to protect their families,” said the sheriff.
“I will continue to support the law abiding citizens of our community when they are forced to take actions to protect their lives, liberty and property,” he added.
bless you sheriff ray!