Home Invader Pushed Woman, 102, Grabbed Lifeline Pendant: Police

TOMS RIVER, NJ -- Toms River police are continuing to search for a man who forced his way into the home of two elderly women Monday night in the downtown area.

The man, described as a white male in his 30s, about 5-foot-8 with a thin build, was last seen headed toward the Water Street area from the site of the home invasion robbery, a home on Dock Street, said Ralph Stocco, spokesman for the Toms River Police Department. He was wearing a black knit hat, jeans and a waist-length jacket.

Police were called about 8:40 p.m. to the home, where the residents -- a 72-year-old woman and her 102-year-old mother -- told police the man forced his way in when the daughter answered the ring of the doorbell. She told police he grabbed control of her arms and dragged her toward the interior of the home and toward the 102-year-old woman, Stocco said.

The mother tried to activate her lifeline pendant that was around her neck, but the suspect pushed the 102-year-old to the floor and yanked it away before she could push the button, Stocco said.

The man repeatedly demanded cash and the victims complied with his orders, Stocco said. Once he received the money he fled the house and ran south on Dock Street, he said.

Officer Paul Burkhardt and other officers responded to the call. The Ocean County Sheriff’s Office CSI Unit also responded and is assisting with the investigation, he said.

Anyone with information should contact Detective Lou Santora at 732-349-0150 extension 1276.