Toms River Couple Chases Home Invader

Following a home invasion Sunday night, a Toms River couple took matters into their own hands, chasing after an intruder and holding him until police arrived to place him under arrest, the Asbury Park Press reported.

On April 27, at approximately 9 p.m., a 32-year-old man and a 31-year-old woman were at their home on Second Bayway when they heard banging at the front door. Seconds later, a suspect  identified as Mario J. Ortiz, 39, of Waters Edge Drive, entered the home brandishing a handgun, Toms River Police reported on their Facebook page.

According to police, Ortiz pointed the gun at the couple, demanding money. They handed him $60 in cash at which point the suspect fled the home.

"The female victim gave chase on foot while the male victim trailed the suspect with his vehicle. As Mr. Ortiz fled he was shedding his ski mask, gloves, and clothing as he tried, unsuccessfully, to escape through several fenced in yards," police reported.

As he fled, Ortiz alleged dropped the magazine to the gun was in the front yard of a nearby home. The firearm was then tossed into another yard by the suspect.

In the statement on their Facebook page, Toms River Police said that "as the victims chased him down they were yelling at neighbors to call the police. Only minutes later the two victims caught up to him by the Cosmic Surf Shop at 1401 Route 37 East just as the officers arrived."

Ortiz was placed under arrest. he has been charhed with burglary, home invasion robbery, possession of a weapon and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose. According to authorities, the suspect is being held at Ocean County Jail on $150,000 bail.