While watching live surveillance, a homeowner discovered two people entering a property he owns and disabled the tires of a suspicious vehicle while on the phone with 911. Alexandria Mosher, 19, and Dominick Wood, 22, later surrendered and were arrested; both face second-degree burglary charges and were found with items taken from the home. The homeowner was not charged, but officials urged residents to learn New York’s Article 35 rules and to prioritize safety and clear witness cooperation.
Homeowner Shoots Out Car Tires After Watching Live Feed — Two Suspects Surrender
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Two alleged burglars surrendered to authorities after a homeowner watching live surveillance footage disabled the tires of a suspicious vehicle parked at his property, officials say. The suspects, identified as Alexandria Mosher, 19, and Dominick Wood, 22, were arrested by Ontario County deputies and charged with second-degree burglary.
What Happened
Undersheriff Michael Rago told reporters the homeowner was monitoring live camera footage when he saw two people enter a property he owns. The homeowner drove to the scene, observed an unfamiliar car in the driveway and lights flickering inside the home, and remained on the phone with 911 while responding.
While waiting for deputies to arrive, the homeowner grabbed a shotgun and called out to ask who was there before firing at the parked vehicle and disabling its tires. Shortly after the shots, one person inside the house called 911 and said they would cooperate and exit without further incident.
Arrest and Charges
When officers arrived, they took Mosher and Wood into custody. Both were found in possession of items taken from the house and were charged with second-degree burglary. After their arraignment the pair — described by police as Lima residents — were released pending a future court date.
Legal Reminder and Official Caution
The homeowner was not charged in the incident. Still, the Ontario County Sheriff's Office urged residents to understand New York’s legal standards for self-defense and defense of property. Undersheriff Rago emphasized caution, saying authorities do not want more victims or injured suspects and that being a clear, cooperative witness is often the safest course.
"At the end of the day... We don't need more victims. We don't need victims injured. We don't need suspects or defendants injured. It just comes back to being a good witness for law enforcement," Rago told the reporter.
Officials referenced Article 35 of New York law (Defense of Justification), which outlines when force may be justified to protect oneself or property. The department cautioned that outcomes can vary widely when homeowners confront suspected intruders and urged people to prioritize safety and follow police instructions.
Similar Case Abroad
The episode follows a high-profile case in New South Wales, Australia, in which a homeowner assaulted a suspected burglar with a baseball bat and detained them; that homeowner was later arrested. Authorities say such contrasting outcomes highlight the risks and legal complexities of taking forceful action against suspected intruders.
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