Police investigating self-defense claims in shooting

A 26-year-old old man shot during a confrontation Monday night told Palm Bay police said he was wounded after trying to collect a debt. Detectives are also reviewing the 'stand-your-ground,' claims of the shooter, who told police that he was defending himself when he fired his weapon.

"We're working with the state attorney's office to review the case. The shooter is making claims of self-defense," said Yvonne Martinez, spokeswoman for the Palm Bay Police Department.

The shooting was reported about 8 p.m. Monday in the area of the 1600 block of Sunny Brook Lane.

Patrol officers arrived within moments and immediately began investigating reports from witnesses that the shooting victim was trying to walk away with property that did not belong to him when he was shot. Police say the injuries are non-life threatening.

Police then learned the unidentified victim was driven to Palm Bay Hospital by his girlfriend.

The man was then airlifted to Holmes Regional Medical Center for further treatment.

An investigation is ongoing.