Kentucky Juvenile Defends Himself During Armed Home Invasion, Fatally Shoots Two Intruders

A juvenile in Clay County was forced to defend himself early Saturday morning when two armed intruders broke into his home, attempting to steal firearms from a safe. Both suspects were shot by the young defender, with one dying at the scene and the other later succumbing to his injuries at the hospital.
According to Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 11, the incident occurred on February 15, 2025, at approximately 4:24 AM. Clay County 911 received reports of a shooting, prompting the Manchester Police Department to respond. Officers found two men with gunshot wounds inside the residence and requested KSP to assist with the investigation.

Detectives determined that the suspects, identified as Roger D. Smith, 44, of McKee, and Jeffrey M. Allen, 51, of Manchester, had forcibly entered the home with the intent to steal firearms. The juvenile resident, upon discovering the armed intruders, acted in self-defense by retrieving a handgun and shooting both men. He then escaped through a bedroom window to ensure his safety.

Emergency responders transported Smith to Advent Health Manchester, where he was later pronounced dead. Allen was declared deceased at the scene by the Clay County Coroner. Autopsies are scheduled for February 17, 2025.