OREM, Utah - Orem police say a man broke into two homes Monday night, but only got away with a credit card as people were home at each of them.
The break-ins happened about 8 p.m. near 100 North and 600 West.
Lt. Craig Martinez said the suspect got in by throwing a rock through a back window. Homeowners at each residence heard the noise and were able to scare the would-be burglar off.
“The homeowner was in bed, poked her head out of her room and saw a man walking down the hallway wearing a headlamp,” Martinez said.
When the suspect saw the homeowner, he ran.
Martinez said the homeowner also got a phone call about 10 minutes before the break in, which she ignored. Detectives are investigating to see if the phone call and the break in are related.
Neighbor Tina Carlisle said in light of the break-ins they’re being more vigilant.
“We don’t think that’s going to happen in this area, in our little world,” Carlisle said. “When something like that happens, and it’s so close to home, OK, let’s keep our families safe.”
Police don’t have a lot to go on because the suspect was wearing a head lamp. They’re looking for a male, about 5 feet 5 inches tall with a small build.
Martinez said the homeowner did everything right by locking doors and windows. It was a situation that likely couldn’t have been avoided.
“If someone wants to get into a house, chances are they can,” Martinez said. “But if you hear someone, just obviously, immediately call the police department. Let us come out and we’ll figure out who was in there.”
Anyone who may have seen what happened or has information is asked to contact Orem police at 801-229-7070.
