Winchester Ave Senior Fends Off Intruder

Second incident in three days

At approximately 8 pm on Monday January 8, 2018, a senior, in her late 70's, was confronted by a masked man in her home demanding her purse and wallet. The female home owner fought back and the intruder left empty handed.

The female told police she had momentarily stepped outside to close the front gate to her Winchester Ave home and when she returned, was confronted by the male wearing a balaclava covering most of his face. The suspect pushed her into the nearest bedroom and demanded her purse. She refused to hand it over and pushed back.  After more pushing and yelling she ran to her neighbours and called 911. 

Officers, along with Police Dog Services, were on scene within 4 minutes but were unable to locate the suspect.   "She had some bumps and bruises but given what she had been through,  she was no worse for wear, " said Constable Gary O'Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP. The Nanaimo RCMP Victim Services have reached out to the senior and are assisting her.

This is the second incident in the past week at this residence.  On Saturday January 6 the home owner called police to report her jewellery box had been moved from her bedside table and found in an other room. The box had been emptied of its contents, and missing are three rings, including her wedding rings, some cash and her debit card. No suspects have been identified in this incident.

The suspect in this latest incident was wearing a dark coloured balaclava and is approximately 5 ft. 5 with a slim build and wearing dark clothing. If anyone has information on either of these two crimes, call the Nanaimo RCMP at 250-754-2345. If you wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at www.nanaimocrimestoppers.com, text 274637, keyword Nanaimo or call  1-800-222-8477.