8-year-old girl hits, chases off prowler who broke into her home

An 8-year-old girl chased away a prowler after he broke into an El Cajon condominium and woke her up early Sunday, police said.

The stranger removed a window screen and climbed inside the home on Hawk Lane about 4 a.m. then went into a bedroom where the girl and her 6-year-old brother were sleeping, Lt. Rob Ransweiler said.

The girl was awakened by the suspect and hit him. He ran from the home, the lieutenant said.

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Officers and a police dog searched the area but weren’t able to locate the man. He was described as tan and slim, about 5 feet, 9 inches tall with dark, fluffy hair. He smelled bad and was wearing dark clothing and a backpack, police said.

No items appeared to be missing from the home. Investigators found another window screen that had been removed at a nearby condominium. Officers reminded residents to secure doors and windows while sleeping or when they are not at home.

Winkley writes for the San Diego Union-Tribune.

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