Police Investigating Recent Reports Of Home Invasions In Canton, Other SE Baltimore Neighborhoods
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- Baltimore City Police are investigating reports of an increase in home invasions in Canton and other southeast Baltimore neighborhoods.
Police say a group is terrorizing these neighborhoods, breaking into homes and holding people at gunpoint for car keys.
Arch McKown, with the Patterson Park Neighborhood Association, says on East Baltimore Street, the suspects successfully broke into a neighbors home
McKown said, when the homeowner woke up, the suspects put a knife to their throat and stole their car.
"These guys are checking doors and windows, and if it's not locked, they will cut a screen or open the door and work their way in," McKown said.
He says two other incidents where homeowners woke up and were held at knifepoint happened on S. Curley Street and East Lombard Street.
Baltimore City Police say in the first two weeks of March, there were at least four reported home invasions in southeast Baltimore, including Brewers Hill, Canton and Upper Fells.
The teens, armed with guns and knives, entered homes in the early morning hours while homeowners were sleeping. They then stole cars, electronics and money, police say.
Victims say in three cases they woke up and tried to stop them, but the suspects held them at knifepoint. Another victim reported being held at gunpoint.
"I think it's unsettling. It feels very violating for neighbors," McKown said. "Obviously your home is your castle for most people and it's a safe place to be."
At least two of the four suspects have been arrested by police, while two other suspects are still at large.
As the numbers continue to climb, Baltimore City Police are reminding neighbors to be careful.