A harrowing situation saw light in Orange County, Florida in December 2011 when a 17-year-old resident experienced the nightmare of an unfolding home invasion. With the quiet invading her home disrupted by the unwelcome presence of two burglars, she sought refuge in an upstairs closet. From the perceived safety of her hiding spot, she courageously dialed 911, alerting a sheriff's dispatcher to her precarious situation.
The intruders fled the scene shortly, only to be subjected to their share of instant justice - a car crash ensuing from their reckless run through a red light.
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Call Records:
[Emergency Call Transcription]
Caller: "There's two guys. They're entering my house right now. They're two really young African-American guys."
Dispatcher: "They broke the back sliding landing doors in the back in the patio?"
Caller: "Yes, they broke the back door open."
As the caller described the situation to the dispatcher, she informed that she was hiding in her closet. She continued to update the dispatcher about the movements of the burglars and their appearances, as much as she could manage from her unpredictable vantage point.
Caller: "They're stealing, I think they're leaving."
Dispatcher: "Okay, okay. Stay on the line."
As the dispatch maintained a constant communication, the caller revealed the intruders' exit and the car they drove - a Toyota Tercel.
[End of Transcription]
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An abridged recount wouldn't do justice to the gut-wrenching fear and anxiety vibrating through the near-whispered conversation during the call. Yet, trapped at the epicenter of the tension, the teenager displayed exceptional courage and presence of mind, actively sharing vital details, which would have assisted the immediate response and the follow-up investigation.