ALEXANDRIA, VA – Alexandria Police Chief Tarrick McGuire today provided an update on the investigation into the October 14 incident in which masked individuals approached a home on South Iris Street. The incident, captured on the family’s doorbell camera, gained national attention after it was initially reported as an attempted burglary.

Officers were dispatched and arrived within two minutes of the 9-1-1 call, which was first reported as a suspicious event and later upgraded to a burglary in progress. The Alexandria Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Bureau dedicated more than 100 investigative hours to identifying those involved.

Through the course of interviews, detectives learned that the victim first contacted her brother before calling the police.

A significant break in the case came after the department’s first press conference, when multiple community tips led investigators to the suspects, three juveniles, ages 14 to 16, who were related to the victim. An adult female confessed that she, her two sons, and her nephew were responsible for approaching the home while wearing Halloween masks. Two additional adults were in the street filming the incident.

Following consultation with the Commonwealth Attorney and the family, they have chosen not to pursue criminal charges. Therefore, the suspects will not be publicly identified.

“While this case may not result in prosecution, it represents a serious moral failure,” said Chief McGuire. “Pranks of this nature are not taken lightly. Actions like these could have had deadly consequences. Adults must be accountable for their children, and parents have a moral responsibility to guide and correct their behavior.”

Halloween Safety

As Halloween approaches, APD officers will have an increased presence in neighborhoods to help ensure everyone enjoys a safe holiday. Chief McGuire encourages parents to speak with their children and teens about safety, responsibility, and respect for others.

Safety Tips for the Season:

• Talk to your children and teens about appropriate Halloween behavior.
• Encourage travel in groups and stay in well-lit areas.
• Remind everyone to never approach or prank private homes uninvited.
• Report suspicious activity to police immediately by calling 9-1-1.

The Alexandria Police Department thanks the community for its partnership and vigilance in helping keep our neighborhoods safe.

**The Press Conference can be viewed here.