I would dispute the idea that the danger is over when the burglars turn and run, for they are likely to return later, or to try invading someone else’s home.
Lawyers and some of the courts just don’t understand the basic principle which I learned in my self-defense classes. When do you stop shooting? When the invader drops.
“One of those homeowners violated a cardinal rule of self-defense and fired his shotgun at the fleeing felon after the threat had ended, but no charges against him have been announced.”
He fired at the truck as they were going down the road. The responding officer stated “He may have hit a window”. the state of Washington has very permissible gun laws, and you can use one to stop a felony (theft of over $250, assault, etc.) - it is not just for self defense.
And with regard to shooting at a violent fleeing suspect (they were trying to break down the guy’s door) from the WA state laws:
“...In considering whether to use deadly force under subsection (1)c) of this section, to arrest or apprehend any person for the commission of any crime, the peace officer must have probable cause to believe that the suspect, if not apprehended, poses a threat of serious physical harm to the officer or a threat of serious physical harm to others...”
Notes:
Legislative recognition: “The legislature recognizes that RCW 9A.16.040 establishes a dual standard with respect to the use of deadly force by peace officers and private citizens, and further recognizes that private citizens’ permissible use of deadly force under the authority of RCW 9.01.200, 9A.16.020, or 9A.16.050 is not restricted and remains broader than the limitations imposed on peace officers.”