Homeowner fires shot, burglar flees

By Leslie Wood
Staff writer

GALLUP — Police are searching for a man who tried to steal $20,000 worth of natural gas equipment during a residential burglary in Mentmore early this morning.

Deputy Police Chief John Allen, a spokesman for the Gallup Police Department, said someone broke into a garage of a residence on the 3400 Block of Blue Hill Avenue at about 5 a.m.

The homeowner noticed his van that contained the valuable equipment had been stolen from the driveway. He then found the burglar inside the garage trying to steal additional equipment.

Allen said the homeowner fired a shot from a handgun over the thief’s head and demanded he remain inside the garage until police arrive, but the man fled on foot and has not been arrested.

The suspect is described as about 6 feet tall with a heavy build. He was wearing dark clothing.

Allen said the stolen van was found parked down the street from the Blue Hill residence and will be returned to its owner.

No injuries were reported during the incident.

Anyone with information about the break-in is asked to call CrimeStoppers at (505) 722-6161. A reward of up to $1,000 is available to anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest and conviction of a suspect in the case.