12-year-old shoots home intruder after 73-year-old woman shot during robbery

Officials said two masked subjects forced their way into the 73-year-old Linda Ellis' residence, demanding money. At least one of the suspects, identified as 19-year-old Khalil Herring, was armed – and allegedly shot Ellis.

"A 12-year-old juvenile occupant of the residence shot at the suspects with a firearm in self-defense, causing them to flee the area," wrote officials in a statement.

Goldsboro police discovered Ellis in her apartment with a gunshot wound. She was taken to Wayne UNC Health Care, where she was treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

Chiquita Coley Ellis' great niece, says she couldn't believe what happened.

“My phone was constantly ringing, and ringing and ringing," Coley said. “I just couldn’t believe she been shot because she’s a good person.”

Police also discovered Herring at the nearby intersection, where he ended up after apparently trying to escape the apartment after being shot by the 12-year-old.

Herring has died as a result of his injuries, according to officials.

"Preliminary evidence suggest Khalil Herring was one of the two masked intruders and was shot during the robbery," wrote officials.

Ellis says the random acts of violence need to stop.

“Why would somebody come into her house and do this? It’s got to stop," Ellis exclaimed. "I don’t know what they’re thinking around here in Goldsboro, but it’s got to stop.”

Charges against the 12-year-old that fired the gun are not anticipated by the Goldsboro Police Department.

The investigation into the armed robbery and subsequent shootings is on-going.