A Plainfield man who interrupted what he believed was a burglary at a relative’s house on Friday was shot by his own gun during a struggle with the intruder, according to a news release by the Plainfield Police Department. 

The victim, Troy A. Burek, 27, of 228 Spaulding Road in Plainfield, had a valid permit for the gun, and drove himself after being shot in the abdomen to a gas station for help, police said. He was taken to William W. Backus Hospital in Norwich, where he was treated and released. 

Police were still searching Saturday for the suspect, described as a white male, age 14 to 18, about 5 feet, 8 inches tall, with a slim build, and wearing a black sweatshirt, blue jeans, winter hat and bright blue sneakers, the news release said. Burek said a second suspect was in the house, but he was unable to get a description, the release said. 

Burek told police he arrived Friday evening to care for a family member’s house at 40 Palmer Lane, when he interrupted what he believed to be a burglary, police said. Burek pulled out a firearm and then was attacked, and the gun discharged during the struggle, the new release said. The suspect fled on foot, and Burek drove to the Plainfield Shell on Norwich Road. Police were called to the station at about 6:45 p.m. for a man suffering from a gunshot wound. 

Plainfield police are investigating and asked the State Police Major Crime Unit to assist in processing the scene at Palmer Lane. The road was closed to all but residents. 

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Plainfield police at (860) 564-0804 or the anonymous tip line at (860) 564-7065.

d.straszheim@theday.com

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