A quiet afternoon turned into a nightmare for a local family after a teenage boy walked into his own home — only to find a stranger living there. The shocking incident took place in a suburban neighborhood when a family returned from vacation, only to realize that their home had been occupied by an intruder who had made himself completely comfortable.
According to police reports, the teenager, identified as Justin Oliver, was dropping off a friend’s son at home when he noticed something was off. The front door was slightly open, and lights that should have been off were glowing through the windows. “At first, I thought maybe they came back early from their trip,” Justin told reporters. “But then I heard someone moving around inside — and it wasn’t them.”
Justin quickly called 911 and waited outside until officers arrived. When police entered the home, they discovered a middle-aged man lounging in the living room, eating from the family’s refrigerator and watching television. Investigators say the man, identified as 48-year-old David Mendoza, had broken in several days earlier and had been living there as if it were his own home.
“He had unpacked his belongings, done laundry, and even slept in the family’s beds,” said Officer Karen Holt of the local police department. “He clearly felt at home — he wasn’t hiding, he wasn’t in a rush. It was as if he truly believed the house belonged to him.”
Authorities later found evidence suggesting Mendoza had used the family’s kitchen, taken showers, and even attempted to access their Wi-Fi. A small pile of mail was found neatly stacked on the counter — opened and sorted by the intruder. “It’s like he was pretending to live a normal life,” Holt added.
The family, who had been out of town visiting relatives, was horrified when they learned what had happened. “It’s the most unsettling feeling,” said the homeowner. “To think someone was in our space, touching our things, sleeping in our beds — it’s beyond violation.”
Mendoza was arrested without resistance and now faces multiple charges, including burglary, trespassing, and theft. Police believe he may have targeted the home after noticing it was vacant for several days. Surveillance footage from the family’s doorbell camera reportedly shows him entering through a back door late one evening.
Neighbors say the incident has left them shaken. “It’s scary because it could happen to anyone,” said one resident. “You think locking the doors is enough — but apparently, it’s not.”
Law enforcement officials are urging homeowners to take precautions when leaving town for extended periods. They recommend using security systems, smart lighting, and asking neighbors to collect mail to avoid obvious signs of vacancy.
As for the Oliver family, they say it will take time to feel secure again. “We’re grateful that Justin was alert and that no one got hurt,” said the homeowner. “But knowing someone invaded our home like that — it changes the way you think about safety forever.”
Police have confirmed that Mendoza remains in custody as the investigation continues.
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