Pair of Home Invasions Reported in Northridge Overnight

Two frightening home invasion incidents were reported in Northridge overnight, leaving residents of the San Fernando Valley shaken and police investigating potential connections between the crimes.

The first incident occurred around 9:50 p.m. Tuesday on the 9000 block of Vanalden Avenue. Police say at least one suspect broke a glass door and entered the home while the family was inside. Though the family heard the intruder, they did not see him. The suspect, or suspects, quickly fled after realizing the house was occupied. It remains unclear whether anything was taken.

Roughly 30 minutes later, just three miles away on the 17600 block of Murphy Lane, another burglary was reported. In this case, a resident and child were home when a masked man smashed a window and entered. Startled to find people inside, the suspect fled before officers arrived. He was described as about six feet tall, wearing a black mask, gray hoodie, and black sweatpants.

Fortunately, no one was injured in either incident. Still, the back-to-back nature of the crimes has raised concerns among residents. A neighbor near Murphy Lane reported that the home had been targeted before, suggesting repeat criminal activity in the area.

Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell, speaking recently on KTLA, highlighted a troubling trend: burglars becoming increasingly sophisticated. He noted that some groups now conduct surveillance in advance, even planting cameras around properties to track residents’ schedules.

“This is a problem we see throughout Southern California,” McDonnell said, adding that the LAPD is working with regional task forces to share intelligence and coordinate arrests.

While law enforcement has had some success apprehending suspects, McDonnell stressed the importance of community vigilance. He urged residents to stay alert, take security precautions, and build relationships with neighbors — something he described as one of the strongest defenses against crime.

The Northridge incidents underscore how quickly and unexpectedly home invasions can occur, even while families are present. As investigations continue, police are reminding the public to report suspicious activity immediately.

Source: KTLA