STUDIO CITY—Investigators are searching for suspects in connection to a home invasion robbery in Studio City, where an 84-year-old woman was beaten. The incident occurred on Monday, June 12, at around 5:30 p.m., in the 3100 block of Oakdell Road.
According to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), the break-in appears to have been an attempted “knock-knock” burglary. The victim was reportedly home alone and did not respond when two men knocked on her front door. According to a neighbor who asked not to be identified, the suspects went around to the back of the house and broke in through a window.
The suspects confronted the victim and struck her at least once in the face, possibly with a handgun. She was transported to a local hospital with unknown injuries. It was unclear whether she suffered additional injuries. Reports indicated that she had returned to her home on Tuesday.
Authorities have not disclosed what the suspects stole from the home, as the investigation is ongoing.
“Knock-knock” burglaries typically involve small groups who knock on front doors or ring doorbells to check if anyone is home. If a home appears to be empty, the burglars break in through a rear entrance or window. In March, the LAPD announced it had assembled a San Fernando Valley Knock Knock Burglary Task Force focusing on criminal street gang members who target celebrities and residents of high-end communities. The task force was established following a series of high-profile burglaries at the homes of figures such as Los Angeles Lakers star Nick Young and Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Yasiel Puig.
It is unclear if the break-ins are related, but police have indicated that the burglars seem to be targeting affluent residences that likely contain valuables. Officials advise residents to exit their homes after making their presence known to burglars, before calling authorities.
