Dog Runs Off Following Residential Burglary

Alexander Chavez, 19, was arrested early Sunday morning on suspicion of robbing a residence on the 700 block of Fifth Street.

Officers responded to a call of an interrupted residential burglary at around 12 a.m., after the victim returned home to see Chavez fleeing out the back door of the residence, according to a release by the .

The victim and two bystanders chased after Chavez, and provided police with the suspect’s description and his direction of travel.

The two bystanders ended up catching Chavez and detained him while police were on their way to the scene. Chavez was subsequently booked into the Santa Clara County Jail after police interviewed witnesses and the victim.

The stolen property was recovered and returned to the victim. However, Lula, a tan, two-year-old Viszla dog escaped during the robbery after the suspect reportedly left the gate to the property open.

The victim’s dog is still missing, and anyone with information regarding the dog’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Gilroy Police Department, the release reads.

Police also want to use this incident as a reminder to locals that they should be extra alert this holiday season.

One Gilroy home was robbed of Christmas presents earlier this month. To prevent this from happing to you, make sure to report any suspicious activity in or around your neighborhood, Gilroy police advise.

For tips on how to stay safe and protect your home during the holiday season, refer to.