Two men, one of whom was wearing a Halloween mask, followed Hamden residents into their home Wednesday night, pistol whipped one of them and fired a gunshot before the homeowners' dog attacked and scared the intruders away, according to police.
Authorities responded to the home on Pine Rock Avenue at 9:15 p.m. on Wednesday and learned that two intruders followed two residents into the house and demanded money.
Police said a scuffle broke out during which one suspect struck a resident in the head with a gun. The resident’s dog attacked the intruders after a gunshot rang out and the men ran off.
Police said the resident who was struck suffered a head injury and cuts to the face but was otherwise OK.
One of the intruders is described as a thin man standing between 6 feet and 6 feet 2 inches tall. Police said he was wearing dark clothing and a white Halloween mask.
The other suspect was also thin and was wearing dark clothing and a mask, police said. Both suspects are believed to be in their early 20s and were armed with semi-automatic handguns.
Authorities believe the attack was not random but have not elaborated on the possible connection between the suspects and residents.
It's at least the fifth home invasion in the area in recent weeks. Neighbors said the sight of crime tape has become far too common.
"It has to stop," said Hamden resident Andrea Ciaccio. "It truly has to stop."
Police said they've seen an increase in criminal activity in the area and have stepped up patrols in the area to help keep residents safe.
Anyone with information is asked to call Hamden Police Major Crimes Det. William Onofrio at 203-230-4040.
