LAWRENCEVILLE -- A Gwinnett County man said he was defending himself when he shot and killed an intruder Monday night.

Jose Bercian, 23, told investigators he found an unknown man in his home about 10:30 p.m.

Bercian said he went to his bedroom to retrieve a gun.

He told police he then confronted the intruder, who pulled his own gun and opened fire.

Bercian said he returned fire, hitting and killing the unidentified man.

An autopsy is being performed on the intruder.