Johnston County Woman Shot by Intruder; Search for Suspect Continues

It happened early Wednesday morning near Highway 242 in the Johnston County community of Meadow. Investigators say a woman shot her attacker after he broke into her home. He then wrestled the gun away from her and ran.

Deputies say 56-year-old Helen Baker heard a noise in the back room of her home early Wednesday morning. She picked up a pistol and walked to the room to investigate. Seconds later, she was face-to-face with the intruder. She fired once, but apparently missed. The two struggled for the weapon before the gunman took the pistol away from her and shot her once in the ribs.

Investigators say the intruder assaulted Baker again, grabbed some valuables and left.

After the assault, Baker managed to walk more than 100 yards to a family member's house for help.

Neighbors say this seemingly unprovoked attack doesn't make sense, especially in this closely knit community near Benson.

Family members say Baker seems to be recovering well. Even though the bullet went into her rib cage, it did not hit any vital organs.

"Everybody has been up and down here since two, two-thirty this morning," says family friend Danny Myers. "Everybody is mighty upset. We'll be glad when this fellow is caught."