ALTAMONTE SPRINGS -- A 17-year-old suspect was shot and killed in Altamonte Springs early Saturday morning after deputies said he ran from them and into a nearby home.
According to the Seminole County Sheriff's Department, the incident began when Ryan Realford approached a uniformed deputy in an unmarked car.
Police said he appeared to be selling drugs. When he saw the officer's uniform, he ran down the street.
According to the sheriff's office, Realford ran to a house on the 600 block of Lake Mobile Drive.
The homeowner said Realford removed a locked screen door and was trying to enter his house through a sliding glass door.
The homeowner said he asked Realford to leave. When he would not, the homeowner told deputies he shot him.
"If he breaks into your house and you ask him to leave and he doesn't leave why don't you come get us? Why shoot a 17-year-old in the back?" said LaShanda Alexander, Realford’s cousin.
According to deputies, the investigation continues and the homeowner likely won't be charged.
A Florida law allows a homeowner to use deadly force if someone breaks into their home.
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