‘We’re going to find you’ | Alexandria Police continue search for Halloween mask-wearing trio who terrorized family
Police are searching for a masked trio caught on camera trying to break into an Alexandria home.
ALEXANDRIA, Va. — What may have started as a “so-called prank” has escalated into a criminal investigation.
WUSA9 obtained disturbing video showing three people wearing Halloween masks attempting to break into a home in Alexandria on Tuesday night. The incident occurred around 10 p.m. near Duke and S. Jordan Streets, according to the family, who asked that their exact address not be shared.
“At first, I thought it was just a Halloween joke, a little prank,” said Shayla, who was visiting the home her mother owns. “So I said, ‘Happy Halloween.’”
But the trio did not back off, even after Shayla told them she was on the phone with 911 and that police were on the way.
“They kept knocking on the door,” she said. “The knocks got harder and harder.”
Video captured one voice saying, “It’s either you coming out or we coming in,” while another shouted, “Open the door!”
“They tried to enter the home,” Shayla said. “My heart dropped when they said they were going to take a chair and break down the door.”
Alexandria Police Chief Tarrik McGuire called the incident “a very serious matter” during a Thursday press conference. “They began making threatening and alarming comments to the family… specifically stating, ‘If you do not come out, we will come in,’ and threatening bodily harm, even claiming they would ultimately kill them,” McGuire said.
Police believe the suspects may have fled in a vehicle after removing their Halloween masks. Investigators are reviewing additional video footage from nearby homes and businesses to identify the individuals involved. Two vehicles were reported on the road during the incident.
Chief McGuire warned that Halloween pranks can quickly escalate. “We’ve seen incidents nationwide where people mimic horror movies or other frightening scenarios,” he said. “These acts are serious because they are frightening and can result in serious injury.”
The suspects could face charges including burglary and making criminal threats. “Attempting to enter a residence constitutes burglary under Virginia law,” McGuire said. “This is a warning: do not approach homes, make threats, or play with people’s lives. These situations can become very dangerous.”
McGuire emphasized that residents have the legal right to defend themselves inside their homes. “If you engaged in this type of behavior, we are actively searching for you,” he added. “If it involves minors, I urge parents to come forward voluntarily rather than wait for an arrest.”
As Halloween approaches, the chief urged parents to monitor their children’s activities. “Know where your children are and what they’re doing,” he said. “Discuss the decisions they are making. We don’t want to get involved in incidents that weren’t intended to be criminal, but this one clearly was.”
Police say they will continue canvassing neighborhoods and plan to release more information if arrests are made.
About Post Author
