Medford, New York – A 12-year-old boy became a local hero on Tuesday afternoon after stopping a burglar who broke into his home while he was alone. Authorities and the boy’s family praised his quick thinking and bravery, which helped prevent what could have been a dangerous situation.
Intruder Breaks Into Home
The incident occurred around 12:50 p.m. at a residence on Eagle Avenue in Medford. Tristen Taylor, a seventh grader, was home alone when he heard glass shatter and the sounds of footsteps coming from the kitchen, according to the Suffolk County Police Department and family members.
Recognizing the danger, Tristen opened his bedroom window and jumped into the yard, where he could safely observe the intruder inside the house. The suspect, identified as 53-year-old Christian Garcia, a homeless man, had broken into the property and was reportedly roaming through multiple bedrooms.
Quick Thinking and 911 Call
Tristen hid in the yard and immediately called 911 on his phone. Police responded within three minutes and arrested Garcia inside the home.
After the authorities arrived, Tristen calmly called his mother, Amber Taylor, to let her know he was safe.
“At first, I thought he was kidding because he was so calm when he called me,” Amber said. “That’s when he passed the phone over to the officer, and that’s when I knew he was being serious.”
Surveillance Footage Captures Intruder
Home surveillance cameras captured Garcia moving around the residence and even disabling a camera in Amber’s mother’s bedroom. Footage also documented the moment police apprehended him.
Garcia allegedly broke a kitchen window to gain entry and was carrying burglary tools. He was charged with burglary and possession of burglar tools. A Long Island judge set bail at $50,000 cash during his arraignment on Wednesday afternoon.
Family Praises Young Hero
Tristen’s family is proud of his composure and quick action.
“He really is a hero and we’re all so proud of him,” said Amber Taylor. “He just wanted to make sure the Christmas presents are okay.”
Tristen’s grandmother, Timothea, described Garcia as “the Grinch,” while Amber remarked, “It’s something straight out of a movie.”
Despite the frightening ordeal, the seventh grader was not injured and seems more concerned about upcoming Christmas presents than the home intrusion.
How would you react in a home intrusion situation? Do you think children should be trained for emergency situations at home? Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the discussion about home safety in Medford.
