Nutley Cops Investigate ‘Brazen’ Home Burglary On Hay Avenue

Nutley, NJ – Nutley police are investigating a “brazen” home burglary that took place while the residents were in the house, authorities say

According to the Nutley Police Department, the burglary took place at a Hay Avenue home while the residents were asleep between 11 p.m. on May 23 and 5 a.m. on May 24.

The home’s residents realized that they had been burglarized when they woke to find that their house was in disarray, police said.

The suspect may have gained entry from an open first floor window and exited through a set of glass sliding doors, making off with proceeds that included a set of keys which were used to steal the victim’s 2010 Toyota that was parked in the driveway, police stated.

Nutley Police Chief Thomas Strumolo stated that it’s “extremely rare” that a suspect would risk entering an occupied home.

In response, Strumolo stated that he has increased patrols within the township.

According to Strumolo, there were nine motor vehicles that were burglarized in the immediate area including Burnett Place, Grant Avenue and Hay Avenue, and the same actor may be responsible.

Strumolo warned residents to lock their vehicles and windows and doors, and said “proactive measures” will deter a burglar from targeting a home, such as trimming shrubs, lighting dim areas and installing home security systems.

Nutley Commissioner and Police Director Alphonse Petracco said it’s “very brazen” that someone would enter a home knowing that the occupants were inside. 

“Someone desperate enough to enter a home while occupied may have been desperate enough to cause harm,” Petracco stated, adding that he is “confident” the suspect will be apprehended.

The vehicle has not yet been recovered, and incident remains under investigation, police said.

Anyone with information can contact the Nutley Police Department at 973-284-4940.

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