Just before 4 a.m. today, a Compo Beach resident called Westport Police to report someone breaking into their home.
Officers responded quickly, and identified a vehicle that was involved, but the driver fled and eluded police.
The incident is under investigation. It appears the thieves were confronted prior to stealing anything.
The Westport Police Department reminds residents to take extra precautions to keep their homes and vehicles safe this holiday season. They say:
Secure Your Home
Lock all doors and windows before leaving your house, even if you’re only stepping out for a short time.
Install deadbolts on doors and ensure sliding doors have proper locks or rods to prevent forced entry.
Use Smart Technology
Consider installing smart security cameras and motion detection lights.
Use timers for indoor lights to give the impression that someone is home.
Be Discreet on Social Media
Avoid posting travel plans or sharing that your home will be empty.
Share holiday photos and updates after you’ve returned home.
Protect Packages
Have packages delivered to a secure location, such as a neighbor’s house or a designated pickup spot.
Use package tracking and request delivery notifications.
Notify a trusted neighbor or friend if you’ll be out of town and ask them to keep an eye on your property.
Immediately report any suspicious activity to Westport Police.
Car Safety Tips
Always lock your car, even when parked at home.
Keep valuables out of sight or locked in the trunk.
Never leave the vehicle or house keys in your vehicle.
Park Safely
Park in well-lit, busy areas whenever possible.
Avoid leaving your car running unattended, even for quick errands.
Do not leave shopping bags, gifts, or electronics visible inside your vehicle.
If you’re making multiple stops, secure purchases in the trunk and move your car to a different location to deter thieves.
Be aware of your surroundings in parking lots and garages.
Have your keys ready before approaching your vehicle.
I had heard from someone directly involved: after the suspects were interrupted and left, they started circling the neighborhood looking alternative houses to rob. The police were not allowed to pursue them because a violent crime had not occurred. I hope someone corrects my description if any info I’m relaying is incorrect. (Dan agreed to allow me to post anonymously)
That’s especially disturbing if true. BTW, the thieves ought to love it if we build a parking garage downtown…
So sorry this is happening. But Mr Boyd has a point: the FBI reports that 10% of violent crime occurs in parking structures. (Our own police effectively acknowledge the risk in their advice column.) Why the heck would we want to build something that will put our residents and workers at even higher risk and require more policing? And keep in mind that many (if not most) of downtown shoppers and clerks are female–will they really want to park in a place with limited sight lines, etc.? Imagine turning your back in a garage while you try to unload kids and strollers. It’s time to move away from 1980s thinking and embrace newer ideas that don’t involve parking garages.
As anyone who has been to the fireworks knows, there are only two roads out of the beach area, Hillspoint and South Compo. At 4am, couldn’t both roads be blocked by police while other officers flood the area to catch the home invaders?
Is this the same vehicle (people) that were involved in the nighttime burglary of the home in Darien shortly before? If so, it’s a damn shame that they “evaded” the Westport Police. Danny Vener in the post above makes a good point.
Another item to consider is taking a firearms course, doing firearms training, and becoming a responsible gun owner. And also getting a protection K9..
Before anyone buys a gun for protection they better do A LOT of thinking. Storage and access are important. Another thing is you better be prepared to use it so it doesn’t get used on you.
Dan: What is on the seat in the last picture?
Broken glass (tinted) from a car break-in.