Las Vegas, NV – March 25, 2025 – Authorities are on high alert tonight as a cunning burglar preying on elderly residents continues to strike neighborhoods across Las Vegas. The suspect, described as a man in his 40s or 50s with black hair mixed with gray and standing approximately 5’5″ tall, has been posing as a state worker to gain access to homes under the guise of inspecting water pipes, gas lines, or other utilities.
Police say the man, who remains at large, is targeting vulnerable seniors and may be working from a list that includes recently deceased individuals, possibly exploiting obituary records or public data to identify his victims. Security camera footage from a recent incident captured the suspect fleeing the scene in a red pickup truck, providing a crucial lead in the investigation (see video footage below).
The burglar’s method is chillingly calculated. Once inside a home, he reportedly instructs his elderly victims to sit and monitor running water—claiming they must watch for leaks—while he moves swiftly through the residence, stealing valuables such as jewelry, cash, and heirlooms. Detectives note that the suspect completes his thefts in under 15 minutes, often striking around sunset and skillfully avoiding detection by Ring cameras and other home security systems.
“He’s bold, he’s quick, and he’s preying on people who trust authority,” said Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department spokesperson Detective Maria Lopez. “We’re urging residents, especially our senior community, to verify anyone claiming to be a utility worker before letting them inside.”
Victims have described the man as soft-spoken and professional in demeanor, which has helped him gain the trust of homeowners. Authorities suspect he may have hit dozens of homes over the past few weeks, with losses estimated in the tens of thousands of dollars.
Residents are advised to:
- Ask for official identification from anyone claiming to work for the state or a utility company.
- Call the utility provider to confirm any unscheduled visits.
- Report suspicious activity immediately to the police.
The LVMPD has released stills from the security footage and is asking the public for help in identifying the suspect. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Las Vegas Police Department at (702) 555-1234 or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers.
As the sun sets over Las Vegas tonight, fear lingers in quiet neighborhoods where the elderly now wonder who might knock next. Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
