Three men dressed as utility workers attempted an armed robbery at a North Hills home Monday before apparently being scared off by the screaming victims.
Police say the three unknown men rang the doorbell of a Folie Court resident’s home claiming to check on a gas leak. They say the men were wearing fluorescent jackets, pants, hard hats, gloves and face masks. The home's caretaker, a 35-year-old male, answered the door.
The homeowner, who did not wish to share her name, said a utility crew had been in the area the week prior so they did not think anything of it.
"The gas company was working at the end of the block last week and that's what they were dressed like. When they rang the doorbell, the aide opened it up and they had a folder. They looked professional. They said they were here for a gas leak – then he pulled out a gun."
The 69-year-old homeowner said the suspects brought her aide to her with the gun pointed at his head. Upon arriving at her bedroom, they threw her to the ground then held her there.
The victims started screaming, and the three male suspects fled toward Shelter Rock Road. The homeowner said nothing was stolen and that the suspects left paperwork behind.
A neighbor, who does not wish to be identified, told News 12 the screaming was so loud that it woke him up.
“This is literally the quietest neighborhood," he said.
The homeowner believes the screams are why she and her caretaker survived. No injuries were reported.
"I have no idea why they let me go…[it’s] miracle that I'm alive," said the homeowner about the harrowing experience.
Police say this does not appear to be a targeted incident. Anyone with information is asked to call Nassau County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS or call 911.