Bowie resident stabs, kills suspect who tried to break into home: police

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, Md. - A Bowie resident stabbed and killed a man who was reportedly trying to break into their home, Prince George's County police say. 

Just after 7 a.m. on Monday, Oct. 23, officers responded to the 2700 block of Balsam Place for a report of a home burglary. 

The homeowner told police that at least two suspects tried to force their way into the home after pepper spraying an adult resident at the front door. An altercation ensued and the resident stabbed one of the suspects in the upper body when they made it into the foyer. 

The suspects then fled the home. 

The man who was stabbed arrived at the Bowie Health Center and was later pronounced dead. He has been identified as 57-year-old Samuel Lee West of Burlington, North Carolina. 

Investigators with the Prince George's County Police Department are continuing to investigate and do not believe this was a random incident. 

Detectives are consulting with the Prince George’s County State’s Attorney’s Office to determine whether any charges would be appropriate.

Anyone with information should contact Prince George's County Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS (8477).