Manitou Springs Resident Defends Himself After Stabbing, Shoots Attacker in Driveway

In a harrowing act of self-defense that underscores the importance of armed preparedness, a Colorado Springs man shot his alleged attacker after being stabbed in the neck in his own driveway on Tuesday morning, March 26th. Authorities have since confirmed the shooting was justified and that the victim acted in self-defense.

According to multiple reports, including the Manitou Springs Police Department and regional news outlets, the incident occurred around 8:15 a.m. on the 100 block of Pawnee Avenue in Manitou Springs, Colorado. Police responded to calls of a stabbing and a possible shooting. When they arrived on scene, they found one man suffering from multiple gunshot wounds and another man with a serious stab wound to the neck.

The victim, whose name has not yet been released, was outside his home when he was suddenly and violently attacked by 26-year-old Ryan Sutherland. Sutherland allegedly stabbed the homeowner in the neck with a knife. Despite the critical injury, the victim was able to access his legally carried firearm and return fire, striking Sutherland multiple times.

Both men were transported to area hospitals. The victim is expected to survive and recover. Sutherland, while also surviving the shooting, has since been arrested and booked into the El Paso County Criminal Justice Center. He faces multiple charges including attempted second-degree murder.

Investigators determined the man who was stabbed acted in lawful self-defense. The Manitou Springs Police Department issued a statement confirming that the victim will not face any charges.

This incident is a stark reminder of why responsible firearm ownership matters. The victim’s ability to defend himself—despite suffering a potentially lethal injury—likely saved his life and prevented further violence. Had he not been armed, the outcome could have been tragically different.

From a self-defense and gun rights perspective, this case highlights several key takeaways:

• Situational Awareness: The victim was attacked in a place most of us consider safe—his own driveway. Violence can erupt anywhere, anytime.

• The Value of Being Armed: In a matter of seconds, the victim went from unsuspecting civilian to fighting for his life. Being armed made the difference.

• Lawful Self-Defense Works: This is not vigilantism. This is a citizen using force to stop a violent felony against himself. The law rightly recognizes that distinction.

While the investigation continues, there’s no ambiguity in this case: a man was violently attacked and fought back using the tools he had at his disposal. It’s a story that reflects the reality of why the Second Amendment matters—because evil exists, and we have a right to defend ourselves from it.

We wish the victim a full recovery and commend him for his courage and quick action in the face of grave danger.

Sources:

1. KOAA News 5 – Manitou Springs Police Department investigating possible stabbing Tuesday
2. The Gazette – Man arrested on attempted murder charge after Manitou Springs stabbing
3. KVOR News – A Suspect Arrested After Allegedly Stabbing Someone in Manitou Springs