A dramatic confrontation unfolded in the early hours of Friday morning at the Cemitério da Saudade in Franca, São Paulo, when a security guard shot a man suspected of attempting to steal bronze plaques from tombstones. The incident occurred around 4 AM after the guard, conducting routine rounds, discovered the intruder inside the municipal cemetery.
According to the police report, the suspect gained entry by pulling down concertina wire at the back perimeter wall. The guard observed the man had already removed several plaques, with some found stored in his backpack. Upon being discovered, the suspect allegedly threw one of the plaques at the guard and then attempted to attack him with a screwdriver.
Faced with this direct assault, the security professional discharged his firearm twice, striking the suspect in the hand and leg. The wounded man was conscious when emergency services arrived and was transported to the Santa Casa de Franca hospital. Medical staff have described his condition as stable, and he remains under police escort pending his release to give an official statement.
Authorities confirmed the guard's weapon was legally registered and that he possesses the proper authorization to carry it. The guard has claimed he acted in legitimate self-defense during the encounter. All the stolen bronze plaques were recovered at the scene and subsequently returned to the cemetery administration.
The Military Police were alerted to the incident by reports of gunfire. Their investigation is ongoing as they process the scene and gather further evidence related to the attempted theft and subsequent shooting. The case highlights the ongoing issue of metal theft from public and sacred sites.
Based on reporting from g1.