BUFFALO, N.Y. -- Buffalo Police are searching for the suspect involved in a home invasion Thursday afternoon that sent a woman to the hospital with facial injuries.
The invasion happened at about 4 p.m. on Normal Avenue.
A man told residents of the home that he needed to go inside to check on a gas leak. They let him in. Then, he tied up a woman and hit her.
The suspect then stole cash and other items before making his escape.
The suspect is described as a black man, about 6 foot 1 inches tall who weights about 180 pounds and is bald.
Buffalo Police are following several leads regarding the incident, but still ask that anyone with any information to call police immediately at the Confidential Tip Line: 847-2255. They say this is an isolated incident.
They also say it's a reminder to all Buffalo residents to be cautious about who they let into their homes.
It's always best to ask for proper identification, Buffalo Police say, and it's a good idea to check with the utility company in the area to see if crews are really working in the area.
National Fuel provided a statement in response to the crime Friday.
The company says its workers must carry I.D.
The company also reminds customers its employees do not conduct door to door sales of gas supply, visit customers' homes to view their gas bills, or ask them to sign any kind of agreement or discuss maters unless they are related to tax collection activities.
National Fuel employees only visit customers' homes for operational purposes, such as meter reading, construction work or for gas emergencies.
If you are suspicious of a person who says they are with National Fuel and is visiting your home, you can call National Fuel at 1-800-365-3234.
National Grid has similar advice.
"If you're unsure who is at your door, whether it's a utility worker or anyone else, just simply don't open it," says Steve Brady with National Grid. "It's very unlikely a National Grid crew would have to come to your door, but if they did, they all have I.D. and you should demand to see it."
Both companies say you also need to look for a truck or car with their logo on it., and that the I.D. badge is key.
"They will always produce their identification without resistance if asked," says Emily Ciraolo with National Fuel. "If you are suspicious, you do not have to let that person into your home, and you can call us or you can call the police.”
