Four Home Break-Ins Happen Within 18 Hours In Cranston

CRANSTON, RI — Four homes were broken into with 18 hours in the Edgewood section of the city, according to Cranston police.

Police said the break-ins were likely committed by the same person. Homes were broken into on Malvern Avenue, two on Alhambra Circle, and one on Broad Street.

Cranston police said the first break-in happened around 9:30 p.m. Thursday on Malvern Avenue. The homeowner found a man inside his home, and the intruder pointed a gun at the owner, police said.

Police said the gun was likely stolen from the home. The intruder then jumped out the window and ran away, making out with cash and other stolen items. Police described the suspect as a dark-skinned man, wearing a gray camo sweatshirt and a hat, with hair protruding out the side of the hat.

Officers and a K-9 unit were called to the home, but could not find the suspect. Police said the suspect broke into the home by smashing a basement window. He also ate food in the kitchen, according to police.

Then around 2:50 a.m. Friday, a homeowner on Alhambra Circle woke up to find an intruder inside his house. Police said the occupants chased the man out of the house, and no items were stolen.

The homeowner described the intruder to officers as a man with a medium build, wearing gray pants with a blue puffy jacket and a hood. Police said the suspect broke into the home through a back window and may have injured himself, as blood was found at the entry point.

Later that day, another Alhambra Circle resident reported their home and detached garage were broken into. Police said a power tool, a debt card, clothing and a cellphone were stolen.

Police also learned a home on Broad Street was broken into within the same timeframe. The homeowners did not know if any items were taken, but found blood on a screen door. Police said it also appeared the intruder ate food in the kitchen.

Cranston police said patrols were increased in the Edgewood area while detectives continue their investigation. The suspect may still be on foot in the area.

Police urged residents to secure their doors and windows and report any suspicious activity by calling 911. Do not approach the suspect, as police believe he is armed.

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