HOLLIS HILLS, NY – Residents in this quiet Queens neighborhood are being urged to remain vigilant following a recent break-in where burglars impersonated construction workers. The incident unfolded on a typical Tuesday morning, leaving the community on edge and prompting police to issue warnings about the deceptive tactics employed by the criminals.
According to surveillance footage, a man disguised in a yellow safety vest was seen descending the stairs of a home around 10:20 a.m. The individual, far from being a legitimate worker, had broken into the residence and triggered a sensor that alerted the homeowners, who were at their workplaces at the time. “I dropped everything and rushed home,” said the homeowner, who preferred to remain anonymous. “By the time I arrived, the police were already on the scene.”
Inside, the house bore signs of a thorough search, leaving the homeowner distressed over the invasion of her privacy. “It’s heartbreaking,” she said, emphasizing the personal violation felt, especially with children living in the home.
Neighbors had noticed three men dressed as workers outside the house two hours before the break-in. However, due to ongoing renovations, their presence didn’t raise alarms. The men had arrived equipped with a collapsible ladder, which they used to gain access through a guest room window.
Fortunately, the home’s alarm system deterred the suspects, causing them to flee. In their haste, they exited through a window, with one carrying a black bag. The homeowner believes the stolen items were minimal, including a handbag of sentimental value gifted by her late mother on her 21st birthday. “Thankfully, no one was home, and everyone is safe,” she reflected.
Compounding the situation, the homeowner suspects the burglars may have used a device to disrupt local internet connections, as neighbors reported losing Wi-Fi just before the break-in. This sophisticated move highlights the lengths to which these burglars went to avoid detection.
The homeowner is now urging her neighbors to be cautious and report any suspicious activity to the authorities. The police continue to investigate, hoping to apprehend those responsible and prevent future incidents.