During the morning of April 22^nd, 2023, the Cranford Police Department responded to three separate reports of residential burglary incidents which occurred during the overnight hours. 

Police first responded to the 200 Block of Cranford Avenue on the report of a residential burglary occurring overnight on April 21^st, 2023.  The victim reported hearing a loud noise sometime between the hours of 9PM and 10PM and later located damage to a rear kitchen window and screen consistent with an individual gaining entry into this residence.  Police then responded to the 100 Block of Locust Drive on a report of another residential burglary after-the-fact.  Investigating officers confirmed that entry was made into this residence through a door pried-open by suspects, but it did not appear that anything was stolen once entry was gained into the house.  Lastly, police responded to the first block of Van Buren Avenue on a report of criminal mischief to a rear door.  Police confirmed that no entry was made into this residence, but damage was consistent with an attempted burglary.

Each of these events appears to have occurred between the hours of 9PM and 10PM on April 21^st, 2023.  Out of the three reported incidents, two involved homes that were occupied by at least one resident at the time of entry being gained.  Police have also confirmed that a white SUV is a vehicle of interest connected to all three events.

All three incidents remain active investigations.  Individuals who may have information beneficial to these investigations are asked to contact Detective Daniel Donnerstag of the Detective Bureau at d-donnerstag@cranfordnj.org or 908-709-4640.

Residents are reminded to remain alert and to report any suspicious vehicles, persons, or activity to the Cranford Police Department immediately.  “As each of these events occurred after dusk, we encourage residents to be especially vigilant during overnight hours,” Chief Ryan Greco said. He encouraged residents to utilize exterior lighting when possible, which may deter criminal activity. 

The Cranford Police Department also has a Cranford Citizen Camera (CCC) program where residents may register their home surveillance system or doorbell cameras with the department, greatly assisting in follow-up investigations.  For more information on this program or any of our community outreach and crime prevention initiatives, contact Officer Ali Muhammad at a-muhammad@cranfordnj.org.

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Release by Captain Matthew R. Nazzaro

m-nazzaro@cranfordnj.org / 908-709-3990