Nutley Homeowner Assaulted By Car Burglary Suspect: Police

NUTLEY, NJ — A Nutley homeowner was assaulted by a suspected car burglar in his yard last week, authorities said.

According to the Nutley Police Department, the incident took place around 4:30 a.m. on May 30 at a home on Fitting Place. The homeowner told officers that he heard a loud noise in his yard and went to investigate. The homeowner then found a man outside, authorities stated.

The intruder “assaulted” the homeowner and fled the scene, police said.

The victim described his assailant as a Hispanic man about 25-years-old, 6 feet tall and wearing dark clothing.

Officers later found burglary proceeds that the intruder apparently dropped during his escape. Nutley police determined that the items were stolen from vehicles on Elm Place and Wharton Avenue, authorities said.

One of the vehicles on Elm Place was discovered with a broken window, which was smashed with a large stone. Multiple bags were stolen from the car, police said.

Anyone that may have captured the actor on their home surveillance system was urged to contact the Nutley Police Department.

Police Chief Thomas Strumolo advised homeowners not to confront suspicious persons. Instead, they should call police immediately, he said.

“Emergency response time is within minutes, and police are equipped to deal with confrontational criminals,” Strumolo stated.

Police urged anyone that sees “suspicious activity” such as vehicles driving slowly, or making numerous passes, parked or occupied vehicles, and suspicious individuals on neighboring properties to notify them at 973-284-4940, or dial 911 for emergent matters.

Suspicious activity or crimes can also be reported to Nutley police anonymously by texting CRIMES starting message with NPDTIP, or via www.tipsoft.com.

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