A terrifying home invasion in Joliet, Illinois, ended with a mother taking decisive action to protect her newborn.
What could have been a tragedy instead highlighted the courage and presence of mind of a parent defending her child.
The incident occurred late Tuesday night when a burglar broke into the woman’s home.
Acting swiftly, she hid her baby in a closet before confronting the intruder, ultimately shooting him in self-defense.
The Burglar’s Troubled Past
The man who died, identified as 36-year-old Shelby Hurd, had a long criminal history.
He had only recently been released on parole in February 2025 after serving time for multiple burglary convictions.
In 2024, he pleaded guilty to two separate burglaries that had occurred just ten days apart in March 2022, receiving a four-year sentence with credit for time served.
Hurd’s criminal record stretches further back.
He had prior charges in 2019 for vehicle burglary, possession of a stolen vehicle, and being a felon in possession of a weapon.
Despite these convictions, he found himself back on the streets early this year under unclear circumstances.
Troubling Online Posts
Hurd’s social media activity painted a glimpse of his mindset.
After his release from prison, he posted: “Sacrificed my peace and sleep. I did some sh you couldn’t imagine.”
Earlier, in April 2023, he had written: “I’m from the streets… Better look both ways before you cross me.”
These posts added an unsettling backdrop to the events that unfolded in August.
The Home Invasion
Police reported that the burglary occurred around 10:30 p.m. on August 12.
Hurd, wearing gloves and carrying a screwdriver, broke into the mother’s home.
The woman quickly realized the danger and rushed upstairs with her baby, placing the infant in a closet for safety.
When Hurd entered the bedroom, the mother fired a single shot, striking him in the head.
Emergency responders pronounced Hurd dead at the scene.
A Quiet Suburban Street Shaken
The shooting happened in a peaceful part of Joliet, about seven miles west of the city’s downtown, which is known for higher crime rates.
This neighborhood is usually quiet, with large homes surrounded by trees and greenery, making the incident all the more shocking for local residents.
Investigation and Public Reaction
Joliet Police confirmed that the investigation into the burglary and shooting is ongoing.
The mother involved has been cooperating fully with authorities.
The community response has been overwhelmingly supportive.
Many commenters on the police department’s Facebook post praised the mother’s actions, with some even suggesting she should be honored for her bravery.
Legal Context
Illinois does not have a “stand your ground” law.
Residents are generally encouraged to retreat if possible before using deadly force.
However, exceptions exist, particularly in cases of home invasions, such as the one that occurred here.
In this case, the law recognizes the mother’s right to defend herself and her child.
