Suspected home invader shot, killed

During the course of the investigation, detectives were able to determine the suspect, later identified as 51-year-old Robert Rheams of Hammond, was armed with a shovel and a lug wrench when he forced entry into the home of the victim and her two young children, according to a statement from the sheriff’s office.

During the incident, a physical altercation took place between Rheams and the homeowner which ultimately led to Rheams being shot by the homeowner, according to the statement.

Rheams was later pronounced deceased on scene by the Tangipahoa Parish Coroner’s Office.

At the time of the incident, Rheams was out on parole after serving approximately 20 years in prison for armed robbery. Detectives have also tied Rheams to an attempted carjacking which occurred hours prior to the home invasion.

As of Monday, no arrests were made in this investigation. Once the investigation is complete, the case will be forwarded to the District Attorney’s Office for further review.

Chief Jimmy Travis said this case appears to be a homeowner exercising Second Amendment rights to protect herself and her children from a violent home invasion.