Watch CBS News

Security Camera Captures Thanksgiving Burglary In Progress, While Homeowner Watches On Cell Phone

By Justin Finch

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A Washington Square West couple had an unwelcome guest on Thanksgiving.

Around 6 p.m. that night, they watched from their cell phones as a man broke into their Rodman Street home while they were more than an hour away for the holiday.

"We got a text alert that a pending alarm was triggered," said the homeowner, who asked not to be identified.

He said he called 911 right away; but before police arrived, he watched the crook creep through his living room from his cell phone, which is linked to his alarm and surveillance system through an app.

"Rolled the video back, and actually saw the burglar going in the house, up the stairs to the master bedroom."

The burglar had only 30 seconds before the alarm began blaring.

In about two minutes, he barged in, stole a dresser organizer, and jewelry.

He escaped from a back door, the same way the homeowner believes he got in.

The homeowner said the crook may never have got in, had he fully secured that back door.

On Rodman, neighbors hope that someone who knows that burglar will help bust him.

"Even from that video I saw, you know, it was pretty nondescript," said Omar Foda. "He had a hat on, a sweatshirt, and jeans it could've been anyone."

The burglar is seen on video wearing blue jeans, a black jacket, black hat and black shoes.

Must Read Today's Top Stories

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.