An elderly Palo Alto couple had a rude awakening when a burglar smashed their patio door, which led to the police launching an investigation into the evening crime. According to a news release from the Palo Alto Police Department, the intrusion occurred late last night but was only discovered this morning.

The home, located on the 900 block of Ilima Way, was occupied by the couple in their 80s when the incident unfolded. After her husband had fallen asleep, the woman thought she might have heard footsteps in the kitchen and went to check it out. Finding no one, she made a round of the front and garage doors – which seemed secure, said the police report. The couple then dismissed the disturbance and went back to sleep, only to later find their rear glass door shattered, and the side gate left ajar. The report indicated that the intruder likely fled when realizing the home wasn't empty.

Though shaken, the couple confirmed nothing was stolen or rummaged through in their home. The police suspect that the would-be thief bolted before getting a chance to take anything.

The Palo Alto Police Department called for any information regarding the near-burglary. Individuals who can shed light on the case are urged to contact the police's 24-hour dispatch center at (650) 329-2413, send anonymous tips via email to [email protected], or text message or voice mail to (650) 383-8984.