Surveillance video captures Fort Lauderdale homeowner open fire on burglars

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – A Broward County homeowner turned the tables on a would-be robber and the confrontation was caught on camera.

The suspect who was shot has been arrested, and the homeowner who shot him wants other would-be bad guys to take note.

The homeowner, who did not want to reveal his identity, told Local 10 News he was alone and spotted the two men outside his home.

They split up, and one of them walks straight into the home’s carport, grabbing items that don’t belong to him, wheeling out a pricey pressure washer.

In the surveillance footage, the property owner is seen confronting the intruder and pointing a gun.

He said he didn’t know if the other two were armed and he fired his weapon.

Surveillance footage shows a Fort Lauderdale homeowner opening fire after capturing a burglar in the act. (WPLG)

One of the men struck by a bullet ran to a nearby car dealership about a block away on State Road 7 and Southwest Sixth Street, begging for help.

The homeowner told Local 10 News he’s glad he defended what he works so hard for.

The suspect who was shot received help from employees at the car dealership, who called for help.

He suffered non-life-threatening injuries and has been arrested on a burglary charge. Police identified him Wednesday as 19-year-old Withmark Polycarpe.

Polycarpe is being held in jail in lieu of a $3,500 bond. If he posts bail, he cannot return to the incident location and he is not permitted to have any contact with the victim.

As far as the second man seen in the surveillance video, he has not been located.

Anyone with information about his identity or whereabouts is asked to call Broward Crime Stoppers at 954-493-8477.

Withmark Polycarpe. (Broward Sheriff's Office)

About the Author:

Christian De La Rosa joined Local 10 News in April 2017 after spending time as a reporter and anchor in Atlanta, San Diego, Orlando and Panama City Beach.