Remember, these are news stories that are usually printed because shots were fired.  In the majority of attacks the criminal is stopped and the attacker flees when they discover that their intended victim is armed and able to defend themselves. These cases seldom make the news.

Shooting to stop an attack is always the least desirable option. Law abiding gun owners should keep aware of their surroundings and whenever possible try to get out of a situation which may escalate to a self defense shooting situation before it is necessary to use a deadly weapon