By Staff
Michigan State Police continue to search for a suspect they believe was involved in a home invasion that took place in Bertrand Township Tuesday evening.
According to Det. Sgt. Fabian Suarez with the Michigan State Police, Niles Post, the division is investigating the incident, which occurred at approximately 6 p.m. Tuesday night.
At that time, police say that the owner of a residence on Sage Road in Buchanan returned home and noticed a side door to the home open as he backed into the driveway.
The homeowner then walked around toward the rear of the home and heard noises coming from inside.
Opening the garage overhead door, he then observed a black male subject standing inside the garage.
Police say a check of the home later revealed the suspects appeared to have begun gathering items including: electronics, a flat screen television, weapons (long guns) while inside the home – but escaped with only a few things.
The victim left the driveway, fearing the safety of a small child he had with him.
However, another vehicle, owned by the victim's in-laws, which was parked in the garage was subsequently stolen by the suspects.
In their attempt to flee the scene, the suspects crashed their own vehicle into a ditch leaving it immobile and turned to stealing the vehicle belonging to the homeowner's in-laws.
That vehicle has been identified by police as a 2001 Mazda Tribute SUV, maroon in color with a Indiana registration QM 3335.
The original suspect vehicle has been seized by police and will be processed for evidence during the investigation.
Police are hoping that it will help in identifying the two suspects.
That vehicle has been identified as a 1983 Oldsmobile 2 door, primer grey in color with an Indiana registration.
Police have determined that the registered owner of the suspect vehicle is a resident of South Bend, Ind.
As the investigation continues, the Michigan State Police urge residents of the southern counties in Michigan, bordering the Indiana state line to be vigilant and report any suspicious vehicles.
Police also said that several home invasions have taken place during the afternoon and evening hours.
Any and all additional information should be forwarded to the Michigan State Police, Niles Post at 683-4411.