On Saturday, November 7, 2020, deputies responded to a report of an attempted home invasion in the vicinity of NW Leonia Way. Upon making contact with the victim/ homeowner, it was learned that a male subject attempted to break into the victim’s home, armed with a shotgun. The homeowner’s children were also present during the incident. The victim told deputies that they shot the suspect at which point the suspect fled the area.
As deputies searched the area, they located the suspect, Brandon Michael Slywkanycz (age 34), of Panama City Beach, Florida. Brandon was found to have sustained 2 gunshot wounds to his upper body. He was transported to an area hospital where deputies maintain custody of him.
“People have a right to protect themselves,” stated Sheriff Mark Hunter. “Incidents like this are extremely rare here, but I am glad that this resident was prepared to defend their home and family.”
Slywkanycz will be charged with Attempted Home Invasion Robbery, Aggravated Assault with a Firearm, Burglary of a Structure while armed, Grand Theft of a Firearm, Burglary of Conveyance, and Grand Theft. He will be booked into the Columbia County Detention Facility upon being released from the hospital.
