Fake utility workers rob Queens home, steal $20K in cash and jewelry
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QUEENS, N.Y. (PIX11) -- Two men posing as utility workers ransacked and robbed a million-dollar home in Queens. Detectives believe the mother and son living there were unwittingly targeted.
Surveillance video shows the suspects getting away with tens of thousands of dollars—money left to the woman by her late husband.
Multiple cameras captured the heartless caper Tuesday afternoon, but the men have evaded police so far.
"I already warned my grandchildren you don't open the door," said neighbor Wayne Warmbier.
Detectives believe the two criminals targeted the home near Gates Avenue and Fresh Pond Road.
Just before 2 p.m., the men, disguised as utility workers, concocted a ruse about a gas leak to gain entry.
Once inside, they held the mother and her son at gunpoint and stole nearly $20,000 in cash and jewelry.
After the robbery, neighbors were adjusting their own cameras Wednesday night.
"I know them for 17 years, really nice family. Husband, wife, and a son. The husband passed away," said a neighbor who declined to be identified.
The 67-year-old husband, an architect, left money to his wife and son. Police believe someone with knowledge of this targeted them.
"Everybody knows each other, looks out for each other. Unfortunately, it happened. I feel bad and hope they catch them," Warmbier said.
Utilities United Against Scams urges people to ask workers for their IDs and question any unannounced visits. They caution to shut the door until the visit can be verified with your utility company—or call 911.
Police said the men got away in a black SUV.
Fortunately, the mother and her son were not hurt, though they were shaken. They could not be reached for comment.
Submit tips to police by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), visiting crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, downloading the NYPD Crime Stoppers mobile app, or texting 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. Spanish-speaking callers are asked to dial 1-888-57-PISTA (74782).