Police in suburban Denver kill resident who shot intruder

A Vietnam veteran who shot intruder that was threatening his family was killed by cops responding to the break in.

Richard 'Gary' Black, 73, was shot dead by police who burst into his suburban Denver home at about 1.30am on Monday after receiving several reports of a burglary at the address.

Black, who was armed, had just fatally shot the intruder who had injured a young girl when police arrived.

Officers later found the body of the intruder, who has not yet been identified, in the bathroom.

The cop who shot dead Black, described as a long-time resident, grandfather and retired family man, who was often seen tending to his front gardens, has been placed on administrative leave.

'This is a very heartbreaking and tragic situation for everyone involved,' Police Chief Nick Metz said. 'We are providing assistance through our victim advocates to help the family of the deceased resident through this very difficult time.'

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