Two suspects in armed Glendale home invasion released on bail while a third suspect remains at large
Two men accused of zip-tying a Glendale resident’s hands and feet before scouring his home for cash were released from police custody after each posting $100,000 bail, officials said.
The suspects – identified as Downey resident Lonnie Harris, 37, and Baldwin Park resident Frank Diaz, 32 – are slated to return to court next month.
A third suspect — described as a Hispanic man with short hair — remains at large after police called off a search for him shortly after the incident. Police would not say whether they’ve identified him.
Glendale police forensics officials work the scene of a armed home invasion on the 2100 block of Maginn Drive in Glendale on Friday, June 3, 2016.
Posing as utility workers in reflective yellow vests, the trio convinced a Glendale hillside resident to open his door early Friday morning, claiming that they needed his signature to work in the area. One of them even had a clipboard.
When the resident opened the door, the suspects forced their way in and shoved him to the ground before zip-tying his hands and feet.
One suspect held the victim at gunpoint while the two others searched the home, stealing cash before fleeing in a black sedan. Police would not say if the Glendale victim was targeted, or how much money was stolen.
A witness called police shortly after 7 a.m. after seeing the trio leave the home.
Soon after, an officer spotted a black Lexus with paper plates near the Ventura (134) Freeway, with three men inside. The driver failed to stop at Pacific Avenue and Burchett Street, leading the officer on a short pursuit before the car was lost near Zoo Drive.
Investigators subsequently set up a perimeter at the Autry Museum, where Harris and Diaz were caught trying to run.
Both were arrested on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon and robbery.
--
Alene Tchekmedyian, alene.tchekmedyian@latimes.com
Twitter: @atchek
