Accused thief at large after victim interrupts Lehigh home burglary

LEHIGH ACRES, Fla. Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying a suspect who was caught trying to break into a home in the 900 block of Macy Street East Tuesday afternoon.

Around 1:30 p.m., a man walked up to the victim’s home and rang the doorbell several times after the victim left briefly his home.

Although the victim’s daughter was home at the time, she didn’t answer the door for the stranger.

Assuming there was nobody home, the suspect walked to the back of the house and climbed over a wooden fence. While trying to break into the rear kitchen window, the victim returned home and saw the burglary in process, prompting the suspect’s quick escape.

A search of the neighborhood was conducted, but the suspect managed to get away.

The suspect, who appeared to be between 40 and 50 years old, was wearing a black T-shirt, black beanie and blue and black gloves. Surveillance cameras also captured footage of the silver sedan he drove.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS (8477). All callers will remain anonymous and will be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000. Tips may also be submitted online at www.southwestfloridacrimestoppers.com or through the P3Tips mobile app.