Burglaries on the rise in Durham neighborhood

DURHAM, North Carolina (WTVD) -- Homeowners in Durham are on alert after a string of burglaries.

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The burglar is breaking into homes as the homeowners sleep.

Several break-ins have been reported in the southwest Durham area - burglaries are up about 4 percent from last year.

Detectives say they believe the intruder is driving a gold or tan Nissan sedan.

Over the weekend, there were a string of break-ins in the Fortunes Ridge Community.

Authorities say the burglar enters the home through an unlocked sliding door, which police say seems to be the thief preferred method.

Once inside, the intruder steals whatever they can get their hands on: money, jewelry, electronics, and/or credit cards.

Neighbor's, who wanted to remain anonymous, told ABC11 they are on alert and warning others.

"It's very frightening," the neighbor said. "Our grandson lives with us and I heard it was at nighttime so that's even more frightening when we are sleeping."

"Kind of shocked actually.. this is such a peaceful quiet neighborhood," another neighbor added. "Doesn't seem like anything big would be going on out here."

Police are advising residents to lock their sliding doors, garages, and windows.

They also suggest getting an alarm, and keep a light on in your home.