El Cerrito, CA — The El Cerrito Police Department is investigating an early-morning residential burglary during which a suspect entered an occupied home, stole property, and fled in the victim’s vehicle.
On September 23, 2026, at approximately 1:00 A.M., ECPD officers responded to a residence in the 6500 block of Eureka Avenue for a report of a burglary.
The residents were asleep when they were awakened by their dog barking. When one of the residents went to investigate, they observed an unknown suspect running from the kitchen hallway toward the garage.
The investigation determined that the suspect entered the residence through a garage door. Once inside, the suspect stole electronics. The suspect also stole the victim’s vehicle before fleeing the area.
Due to the circumstances and limited visibility, the only description available at this time is that the suspect was carrying or wearing a red backpack.
Fortunately, the residents were not physically injured during the incident.
The El Cerrito Police Department is actively investigating this burglary and is asking residents in the Eureka Avenue, Liberty St., Lincoln Ave. areas to review any exterior surveillance or doorbell camera footage from around the time of the incident. Anyone who observed suspicious activity or captured potentially relevant footage is encouraged to contact the El Cerrito Police Department.
This incident is an important reminder that residential burglaries can occur even when a home is occupied. Residents are reminded to remain vigilant, secure doors and windows, use exterior lighting and alarm systems when available, and immediately report suspicious persons or vehicles.
Anyone who encounters an intruder inside their home should prioritize their safety, avoid confronting the suspect when possible, move to a secure location, and immediately call 9-1-1.
