Armed Suspect Killed After Early Morning Fight With Homeowner Near Lauderhill

A homeowner shot and killed an armed masked man who tried to break into a Broward County home early Wednesday, officials said.

Gary Peterson, 51, was killed during the confrontation with 33-year-old Curtis Taylor, Broward Sheriff's Office officials said.

Deputies responded to the scene located off Northwest 30th Terrace and 5th Street near Fort Lauderdale just after 3:30 a.m.

Officials say a witness told them a masked man carrying a weapon, later identified as Peterson, was skulking around the home of Taylor.

When Peterson tried to get into the home, the two men struggled and Peterson forced his way inside, officials said.

The confrontation continued inside the house, where Taylor got his gun and opened fire, killing Peterson at the scene.

"We do know that he approached the home. He doesn't live here. He was dressed in black. The person who lived in the home was obviously confronted by this person. He barged his way into the home and subsequently died inside the home," BSO spokesperson Gina Carter said.

An investigation continues, with no charges pending at this time for Taylor.

Records showed both men have criminal records. Peterson has multiple charges including robbery with a firearm, multiple drug possessions and intent to sell, and battery. He was released from prison in February.