Albuquerque Homeowner Scares Off Accused Burglar with Firearm

ALBUQUERQUE, New Mexico — A home invasion attempt in Albuquerque was thwarted on Monday afternoon after the homeowner confronted the intruder with a personal firearm, forcing the suspect to flee the scene empty-handed.

According to police reports, the homeowner was inside their residence when they heard loud banging noises coming from a rear door. Upon going to investigate, the resident observed a male suspect attempting to force open the door lock. The homeowner quickly retrieved their legally owned firearm, opened the door, and confronted the suspect directly, warning them that they were armed.

Faced with an armed resident, the accused burglar aborted the break-in and fled the property on foot. The homeowner immediately dialed 911 to report the incident. Albuquerque Police Department (APD) officers arrived at the home shortly after, setting up a search perimeter in the neighborhood, but they were unable to locate the suspect.

APD investigators are currently collecting forensic evidence from the damaged door frame and reviewing footage from the homeowner's security system as well as neighboring doorbell cameras. Residents are encouraged to lock all doors and remain vigilant, and anyone with information regarding the suspect's identity is asked to call the police non-emergency line.