In the early hours of October 17, 2023, a Montclair woman’s life took a terrifying turn when she woke up to find herself face-to-face with two would-be robbers in her own home. According to newjersey.news12.com  the incident serves as a chilling reminder of the importance of vigilance and community safety in the face of rising home burglaries, home invasions, and car thefts in the region.

The unnamed homeowner, a long-time Montclair resident, shared her harrowing experience with News 12 New Jersey. She recounted how she was awakened by the beam of a flashlight in her bedroom, initially assuming it was her son. However, her relief quickly turned to fear as she realized two hooded men were in her presence.

In an act of extraordinary bravery, she screamed, “I’m grabbing the gun,” and charged towards the intruders. This bold move sent the would-be robbers fleeing in panic, down the stairs and out of her home. Fortunately, they left without causing any harm, and she immediately called 911. The Montclair Police Department’s swift response within five minutes is commendable and emphasizes the importance of a prompt reaction during such situations.

The incident was captured on a Ring doorbell camera, revealing the spine-chilling moments when the intruders attempted to enter the home and their hasty retreat following the homeowner’s courageous response. The footage serves as a stark reminder of the very real threats that some residents face, even in a seemingly safe community like Montclair.

As the community grapples with this incident, the broader concern of increasing crime in the area is also brought to light. Home invasions have become a troubling trend not only in Montclair but also in neighboring towns like Verona and Clifton. Law enforcement agencies have issued warnings to residents to secure their homes and belongings, highlighting the need for improved security measures, such as installing lights, cameras, and alarm systems.

Arielle Chan, a local resident, expressed her concerns, emphasizing the importance of maintaining heightened security practices, and many others, like Idil Bilgin, have echoed her sentiments. The tightening of security is a shared responsibility as residents unite to protect their homes and their community.

This Montclair woman’s courageous response serves as an inspiration to us all. Her quick thinking and decisive action remind us that safety and security are paramount. It is imperative that we remain vigilant, look out for our neighbors, and take steps to fortify our homes against potential threats. This unsettling incident should be a wake-up call for the community to stand together and combat the rising tide of crime, while also offering support and gratitude to the brave homeowner who defended her sanctuary.

If anyone has information about the incident, please contact the Montclair Police Department at 973-744-1234.