Police: Elderly Man Victim of Attempted Ruse Burglary

A man tried to force his way into an elderly man's home after claiming the neighbors were experiencing water problems, Palos Park police said.

Police are continuing to investigate the attempted ruse burglary, which happened in the 12100 block of Southwest Highway on Thursday.

The suspect is described as a black man in his late 20s who was wearing a gray hoodie. He fled in a white or gray pickup truck.

Read: Tips on Preventing Ruse Burglaries

On Thursday night, the man came to the front door of the home, police said. He claimed the neighbor's water had gone out and he was sent to check on the water meter.

The elderly man refused to let him in and the scam arrest unsuccessfully tried to open the door before taking off.

Palos Park police reported ruse scams earlier this year. In May, two residents were approached with ruse scams. One of them lost $3,600.

Police urge residents to immediately report all incidents.

Read more:

• Prevent Ruse Scams Targeted at Palos' Elderly Population
• Burglary Victim Speaks Out: "I Felt So Violated"
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