Suspect sought in Pleasanton residential burglaries where couple assaulted with gun, teen with pepper spray

PLEASANTON — A suspect is being sought in a series of recent residential burglaries, including one where a couple was hit with a gun and another where a teen was pepper-sprayed, police said Friday.

The most recent burglary happened about 8 p.m. Wednesday on the 3800 block of Mohr Avenue

Police said a 63-year-old man encountered a male suspect in his backyard. The suspect brandished a handgun and forced the man back inside his home, striking both the man and his 62-year-old wife with the gun inside the house, police said. No shots were fired.

The suspect then fled on foot, jumping over nearby fences, police said. Officers searched the area using a drone and a police dog, but could not find him.

Police have not said if anything was taken from the home. The couple was taken to a hospital as a precaution.

Another burglary happened shortly before 7:00 p.m. Feb.27. Police believe the same suspect entered a home on the 6000 block of Hansen Drive. A 15-year-old resident inside the home encountered the suspect, who sprayed the teen with pepper spray, then fled.

Police did not say if anything was taken from the home. The teen was taken to a hospital as a precaution.

About 8:55 p.m. Feb. 27, another burglary was reported in the 5900 block of Via Del Cielo. Police have not said what if anything was stolen.

Police believe the cases are all related due to a combination of suspect description, the methods used, proximity and time of day.

The suspect is described as a Black male with light skin, about 5 feet 8 inches tall, who wore a mask in at least the confrontation with the couple. He has also worn a dark hoodie, jeans and white shoes.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Pleasanton police at 925-931-5100.

In a news release, police suggested residents consider using security cameras and burglar alarms, adding: “We would like to remind residents to keep their doors and windows locked even when they’re home, and to promptly report suspicious behavior.”