We all know that while, in theory, a restraining order carries the weight of the law behind it, in practice, it’s just a piece of paper that won’t stop an angry attacker who has already set out to break a more serious law like assault or murder. That’s why it’s a good idea to also have on hand something more functional to protect yourself from an angry ex or another antagonist—something that has been proven to stop threats no matter how dangerous they might be.
Such was the case earlier this week in Lake City, Florida, when a man broke into the home where his ex-wife and children live. According to a report at ammoland.com, 31-year-old Langston Sykes, a local mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter nicknamed “Blaze,” forcibly entered the home at around 11 p.m.
According to the Lake City Police Department, Sykes then rushed toward an adult occupant in the home, forcing him or her (the police report doesn’t make it clear) to fire multiple shots in self-defense.
Police said that when officers arrived at the residence, Sykes was lying on the floor with several gunshot wounds and was unresponsive. Emergency responders tried to save him, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Also, according to police, at the time, the residence contained multiple adults and children, and one of the adults in the home had an active injunction, or restraining order, against Sykes. Because of the nature of the break-in and violent confrontation, police say they believe the encounter is likely a case of justified self-defense. Florida has both a Stand Your Ground law and a Castle Doctrine on the books.
“This is a tragic incident, and our thoughts are with everyone affected,” LCPD Police Chief Gerald Butler said in a press release. “Based on the investigation, it appears this may be a case of a resident acting in self-defense during a home invasion. Our detectives are working diligently to gather all the facts to ensure a thorough and complete investigation. We encourage anyone with information to come forward.”
According to the ammoland.com report, some observers have described Sykes as a dedicated father and fierce competitor, while others have acknowledged past aggressive behavior. Social media posts suggest that his ex-wife had moved out to escape his such incidents, which could explain the restraining order.
Interestingly, the MMA gym where Sykes worked out released a statement highlighting Sykes “kindness” while ignoring the trauma those in the house were put through during the home invasion incident.
“Langston was not only a fierce competitor and a dedicated teammate, but he was also a great father and friend,” the statement said. “His kindness and support for those he loved will never be forgotten.”
Ultimately, the self-defense incident highlights the fact that when seconds count, police, who have the authority to enforce a restraining order, are minutes away. It’s fortunate for everyone involved that someone in the home had a firearm and knew how to use it under pressure.
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