Security videos in Montrose show a very flexible burglar breaking into homes through small openings. In one clip he climbs through a side window, and in another he squeezes through a tiny dog door. Because of these unusual moves, neighbors have nicknamed him the “Spiderman from Hell.” The videos show him entering houses and leaving with boxes of jewelry. Police say the daytime break-ins have made residents nervous and more alert in their neighborhood, according to ABC13.
Investigators are searching for a man they believe is responsible for at least seven burglaries in Montrose since December, and they hope the surveillance clips will help identify him, as reported by ABC13. One clip shows a man clambering through a side window, while a separate video captured the same figure climbing through a tiny doggy door to reach jewelry and small electronics. Authorities told reporters the suspect has taken mostly jewelry, along with laptops and other portable items.
For homeowners, the thefts feel like more than just missing property. "Like a nightmare Spiderman or a Spiderman from hell," one homeowner told ABC13, describing how the burglar "scoots into that window" with what she called "defying gravity." Narissa C told reporters he left her home with a box of jewelry that included a family heirloom and her Texas A&M class ring, while another resident said the intruder left behind a saw and her own rolling cart.
Investigators Seek Tips
The Houston Police Department and the Harris County Precinct 1 Constable's office said they believe the same man may be tied to more burglaries and they are urging anyone with information to come forward, according to Yahoo News. Investigators noted the break-ins have mostly occurred during daytime hours when residents are at work or school. Tips can be directed to Investigator Joseph Bowden at [email protected] or 713-755-5200, officials said.
Neighbors Report Wider Theft Trend
The Montrose break-ins reflect a larger pattern of thefts and daytime burglaries across Houston that have hit small businesses and residences in recent months. A previous Hoodline report documented a rash of burglaries that left restaurant owners and residents frustrated and pointing to surveillance footage as the primary means of identifying suspects. Neighbors say cameras and alarms have helped with evidence but have not yet restored a sense of safety.
Officials advise residents to secure side windows, consider reinforcing or locking pet doors, keep valuables in locked safes, and preserve any footage that could help investigators. Community vigilance, along with quick reporting of suspicious people or vehicles, is the best tool neighbors say they have while police try to make an arrest.
