Suspect Sought in Silverton Attempted Burglary

Toms River police are searching for a man who they say attempted to rob a Holiday City at Silverton residence earlier this afternoon.

A New Jersey State Police helicopter assisted local authorities in the search for a white man in his 20s described as wearing a black hoodie, gloves and light grey pants. Toms River police Chief Michael Mastronardy said something was covering the suspect's face. He reportedly stands 5'9" and is 200 pounds.

Mastronardy said the suspect attempted to break into an 84-year-old woman's home via the back window, but fled when confronted by the resident just before 1:30 p.m. He had attempted to remove the window screen when he was allegedly caught in the act, police said. The man then fled on foot toward Church Road with a crow bar in his hands.

Officer Mark Nater and Sgt. Dave McCallum are investigating the attempted burglary while Lt. Michael Brosnan is in charge of the search for the suspect.

Anyone with information about the suspect can call Capt. Bruce Burgess at 732-349-0150 ext. 1201.