MURFREESBORO, TN – Murfreesboro detectives are scratching their heads (and maybe a few hardhats) as they work to catch a burglar with an unusual method for breaking into a bowling alley: the “do-it-yourself sunroof.” Early Sunday, November 10, authorities say, a burglar cut a large hole in the roof of Lanes Trains and Automobiles—affectionately known as “The LTA”—and rappelled down on a rope, Mission Impossible style, to grab some quick cash.
This impromptu rooftop remodel, however, came without a glass insert, and it was perhaps more about unauthorized entry than skylight appeal. After the daring descent, our rogue “roof renovator” took his tools to the interior, adding yet another hole—this time in the drywall. The burglar, spotted on surveillance video, appeared equipped for a bit more than your average weekend heist as he brought along a hammer and possibly a prying tool to crack open a cash register—though the register disappointingly had no cash. Undeterred, he reportedly shifted his attention to an ATM and a game card machine, making off with about $1,500.
Dubbed by some as the “building scaling burglar” or BSB, by those impressed by his vertical dedication, the suspect was captured on video looking rather prepared, decked out in jeans and a camouflage balaclava, which readers noted was more suited to cold climates than covert break-ins and building climbs. The Murfreesboro Police Department is now inviting the community to weigh in on this new take of extreme sports and remodeling – obviously, a combo sport.
Surveillance footage shows the male suspect was tall and lean with a 6-foot high frame. He tipped the scales at approximately 170 pounds. Besides the heavy-duty tools, he also carried a black backpack—perhaps filled with the spoils of his hard work. The camouflage balaclava may have kept his face obscured, but it was noted that the face-warming headwear, often used to keep out cold and wind, was possibly a first in Murfreesboro break-in fashion.
MPD Detectives are urging anyone with information to reach out. Whether you’re a climber, a roofer, or just someone with a hunch, Murfreesboro Police Detective Aaron Gonzalez would love to chat at 629-201-5638.
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