Parrot tips off Dallas homeowner, who kills intruder

DALLAS — A Dallas homeowner shot to death an intruder early Tuesday after being alerted by his pet parrot that someone was on the premises.

John Woodson, 46, died at Parkland Memorial Hospital, Dallas police Sgt. Larry Lewis said.

Police were called to the home about 3:30 a.m. The home, which also is used as a locksmith shop, had been burglarized four times this month, Lewis said.

Dennis Baker, who keeps several pet birds, said his Mexican redheaded parrot, Salvador, says "hello" whenever he sees someone. Someone passed by a window in Baker's home and Salvador began saying, "Hello, hello," awakening Baker from a "dead sleep."

Baker approached Woodson in the detached garage and shot him with a handgun, police said.

Baker said police officers are doing their jobs but are overworked and understaffed. "I will protect my property and my life," he said.

When police officers arrived, Salvador began greeting them with "hello," Baker said.

"Sometimes he says 'hi,' but you can't get him to speak on cue," Baker said. "He has a mind of his own."

Police said they would turn the case over to a grand jury.

Earlier this year, Texas lawmakers approved the Castle Law, which removes any obligation for a crime victim to retreat before responding with deadly force when faced with an intruder in his or her home, vehicle or business.