Fake missing child story helps burglary suspect get inside northeast dc home

Police release surveillance images after homeowner’s property stolen during deception

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A burglary suspect used a story about a missing child to gain entry into a Northeast DC home before stealing property and threatening to shoot a person who chased him, according to the Metropolitan Police Department.

The incident occurred at about 3:50 p.m. Tuesday in the 600 block of Acker Place NE.

Police said the suspect knocked on the victim’s door and claimed his child was missing and that he needed to use a phone.

When the homeowner went to retrieve a phone, investigators said the suspect forced the door open, entered the residence and stole the victim’s property before fleeing on foot.

The homeowner chased the suspect, and a second person joined the pursuit.

During the chase, police said the suspect threatened to shoot the second victim, causing that person to stop chasing him.

The suspect was captured on nearby security cameras, and the Metropolitan Police Department has released surveillance images in hopes of identifying him.

Anyone who recognizes the suspect or has information about the incident is asked to call MPD at (202) 727-9099 or text tips to 50411.

Police are offering a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to the arrest and indictment of the person responsible.

Key Points

Police said a burglary suspect used a fake missing child story to gain entry into a Northeast DC home.
The suspect allegedly stole property before threatening to shoot a person who chased him.
MPD released surveillance images and is offering up to a $1,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.

Chris Quigley Latest posts

Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News