Man Arrested For Home Invasion, Friend Shot

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — A 37-year-old Billings man is charged in a home invasion in which a second suspected burglar was shot in the leg.

Danny Jo Lira made an initial appearance in Justice Court Tuesday on charges of felony aggravated burglary by accountability and obstructing a peace officer. His bail was set at $50,000 and his District Court arraignment was set for May 23.

Charging documents allege Lira and Christopher James Michelotti forced their way into a house late Sunday, causing its six residents — including a 5-month-old baby — to retreat to the basement.

The homeowner warned that if the suspected burglars followed, he would shoot.

Court records say when Michelotti started down the basement stairs with a handgun, the homeowner shot him in the leg. Michelotti was taken to the hospital.