BSO: Teen Home Alone Helps Catch Cooper City Burglar
MIAMI (CBSMiami) -- A 16-year old who was alone in a Cooper City home helped catch a man who deputies said burglarized a home.
According to Broward Sheriff's Deputies, the quick-thinking teen was in the home when she saw a suspicious car drive up Thursday morning
She told investigators that 20-year old, Kwamayne Davis, got out and came knocking on her door with an envelope in his hand.
"Because there was no delivery truck and no official vehicle she was immediately suspicious...She did not answer. She did not let them know she was home. About 15 minutes later she heard a window smashing," said Gina Carter of the Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO).
Deputies said Davis put on gloves and used a window punch to smash the glass.
That's when the teen reacted and ran out of the house to safety. She ran to the back of the home, hid in the bushes and called for help.
By the time police arrived, the alleged burglar was still in the home so deputies were able to arrest him.
"Luckily, because the victim saw him and quickly called 911, we were able to catch him as he was trying to leave the home," said Carter.
Neighbors commended the teen for acting so fast under pressure.
"I think she's pretty smart," said neighbor Bryan Lopez.
"She was smart not to open the door and very smart and brave to think ahead to what to do but I'm sure she was scared definitely," said neighbor Marsha Abraham.
With schools out, starting Thursday, in both Broward and Miami-Dade County, teens will be spending more time on their own at home.
BSO said now is a good opportunity remind your kids about how to stay safe.
"That's crazy. I've seen criminals play off as other people but I never thought it would happen here. It's just overwhelming," said neighbor Steve Lopez.
Authorities had a tip for those who might encounter a similar situation.
"This kind of tactic where burglars approach a home and knock on the door to see if anyone's home....it's best to let them know you're home. If you have a dog, allow them to bark, and let the burglars know you're not expecting anyone and that you will call 911," said Carter.
Deputies continue to investigate the incident.
Anyone with information is urged to call Broward Crime Stoppers at (954) 493- TIPS.
Watch Gaby Fleischman's report here.
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