Palo Alto: Prowler brandishes knife after being confronted by resident

PALO ALTO – Authorities were searching for a prowler who brandished a small kitchen knife after being confronted by a resident Wednesday evening in Palo Alto.

The incident was reported at 6:19 p.m. on the 4000 block of Park Boulevard, the Palo Alto Police Department said in a news release.

Police said an investigation revealed that the victim, a man in his 40s, was in his home when he noticed a prowler in his backyard, peering into a window. When confronted through a window, the prowler pulled out the knife and brandished it. The prowler then left the scene on foot and was last seen heading northbound on Park Boulevard.

The victim described the prowler as a White male, 5 feet 5 inches tall with a stocky build. He was last seen wearing all black clothing and a white face covering with an image of “monster teeth” on it.

The prowler was able to access the victim’s backyard through an unlocked side gate, police said.

“Police recommend placing a lock on side yard gates,” police said. “Residential burglars do not desire confrontations or witnesses, and usually choose to target homes they believe are not occupied.”

Police said no similar incidents had been reported recently in the city.

Anyone with information related to the case can contact the police department at 650-329-2413. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call or text 650-383-8984 or email paloalto@tipnow.org.