I believe any 15 year old kid would panic, and be afraid, thus resulting in him firing five shots. He probably didn't have time to think about the consequences.
I really don't like guns, but I agree. He was afraid for his mother and nervous, not knowing what Conroy's response would be. I also understand why his mother allowed her teenage son to keep the gun with him. I think it was more for his sake, to defend himself in case she became immobilized, which is what apparently happened. But, he was thinking of his mother's safety. Maybe there was a better way of evicting Conroy, like having LE present. But, I'm glad Mary and her son are safe, and that he was found not guilty.
