‘We’re just paying closer attention and locking the doors:’ Neighbors react to home invasion robbery

Jacksonville Beach, FL — Two men pretending to deliver a package to a home on South 1st Street forced their way inside, according to the Jacksonville Beach Police Department.

Investigators say one of the men had a gun and was wearing a gray jacket with an Amazon logo on the back.

The suspect told the woman living at the home she needed to sign for the package.

When she went to get a pen, police say the two men rushed into the house, telling the victim to go to the bedroom.

The two men left a short time later, running toward 35th Avenue South.

“It was screaming, it was somebody yelling help,” said a neighbor who heard the commotion, but didn’t want to be identified.

“[I] told my husband to call 911,” she recalled. “I went to see how she was, and she was quite hysterical and I don’t blame her after what happened.”

The men were later seen getting into a black Acura TLX with tinted windows.

“I was shocked,” said Sean. “Never had any problems with any missing packages or people knocking on the door or approaching.”

“Nothing [has happened] like this,” said the other neighbor. “Someone busting into a house with a gun. Quite distressing.”

Action News Jax Jessica Barreto asked Amazon whether a delivery was scheduled on that street Thursday night, and what the company was doing to ensure its uniforms aren’t used for criminal activity, especially given the fact that they can be easily purchased online.

Amazon spokesperson Branden Baribeau responded with the following statement, and information:

“We are glad the family is safe after this terrifying incident. We take these matters seriously and are working with law enforcement as they continue to investigate.”

Amazon said it does not require signatures for deliveries. If customers don’t want packages delivered at their door, they can update their account reflecting alternative drop-off locations. Also, all delivery associates must have a valid driver’s license and pass a criminal background check.

According to a news release sent from Jax Beach PD, it doesn’t appear the woman at the home was hurt and it’s unclear whether the men took anything from the home.

Still, everyone on the street is being extra vigilant.

“It’s a learning opportunity for us,” Hurd pointed out.

“We’re just on high alert right now,” the other neighbor said. “We’re just paying closer attention and locking the doors.”

Anyone who may have seen anything suspicious around 7 p.m. in that area is asked to contact Detective Currier at (904) 247-6339 or scurrier@jaxbchfl.net.

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