Authorities are investigating whether or not the early morning home invasion has a domestic violence element to it. According to the Richland County Sheriff’s Office, the suspect went to the home of his ex-girlfriend on Bent Tree Lane and forced his way in through a window shortly before 4:30AM.

What he was not aware of is that his ex-girlfriend had an acquaintance staying with her, and they were armed for her protection.

The woman’s acquaintance shot her ex-boyfriend in the upper body after discovering he was in the home.

The homeowner and her acquaintance called the police to report the shooting.

Medics transported the suspect to Palmetto Health Richland with a gunshot wound and investigators are looking into the couple’s past to determine whether or not there was a history of domestic abuse in their relationship.