MIAMI BEACH, FLA. (WSVN) - A South Florida family is speaking out, one day after, police said, an armed invader targeted their Miami Beach home.
“It was really frightening, at the beginning, I couldn’t just believe what happened,” said the Miami Beach-based homeowner, who did not want to show her face. “On the other hand, I’m really grateful to God because this is like a miracle for all of us.”
Miami Beach Police responded to the scene hours after the invasion, which took place at around 8:45 p.m., Thursday.
The homeowner’s son, 27-year-old Simon Chertman, also spoke with 7News on Friday. was in the backyard when the subject approached him. “I just went outside. I was going to make a quick phone call, and he was standing right here,” Chertman said. “Just popped out with a gun, with a doctor’s mask on his mouth. He had a doctor’s mask on, basically told me, ‘I’m not going to hurt you, unless I have to.'”
Chertman was then taken into the house, where his brother — also in his 20s — was inside. The thief then gained access to the master bedroom and took the brothers’ watches, wallets and cash. “He wanted to know the combination to the safe, which I didn’t know,” Chertman said.
After stealing their valuables, the brothers said the subject forced them into a pool shed before taking off. However, when he left, he also took their sense of security.
“They were not harmed,” the homeowner said. “They were extremely frightened. He pushed them a little bit, but that’s it.”
Miami Beach Police combed the scene for clues, and the homeowner hopes the clues will lead to an arrest. “I hope this doesn’t happen to any other person,” she said.
Chertman said the family may invest in security cameras to help keep them safe. They have also barricaded the back door with a pingpong table. “There’s a first time for everything, but I hope nobody has to experience this,” he said.
Miami Beach Police said this type of crime in this particular area is very rare.
If you have any information on this home invasion, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a $1,000 reward.
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