Full Breakdown
Homeowner Defends Family During Burglary Attempt in Queens
1/22/2026, 8:50:49 AM
Incident Overview
In the early hours of January 21, 2026, Moshe Borukh, a 35-year-old homeowner in Jamaica Estates, Queens, confronted a burglar attempting to invade his home. The incident occurred around 2:40 a.m. when Borukh, after hearing suspicious noises, discovered an intruder rummaging through his kitchen in search of the key fob to his Bentley. The burglar was accompanied by two accomplices waiting outside, as captured by Borukh's home security cameras.
The Confrontation
Upon realizing the situation, Borukh retrieved his licensed firearm, a Sig Sauer P365, and confronted the intruder. He described the moment, stating, “I have a gun. Don’t move.” The sight of Borukh armed prompted the burglar to flee through a window, abandoning the attempted burglary. Borukh reflected on the experience, calling it “one of the scariest moments of my life,” emphasizing his responsibility to protect his family.
Context of Rising Crime
Borukh attributed the increase in burglaries in his neighborhood to its proximity to highways, which facilitate quick escapes for thieves. He expressed concern over the perceived lack of consequences for criminals, stating, “There are no consequences... even if they are caught, there’s still no consequences.” This sentiment reflects a broader anxiety among residents regarding safety and law enforcement efficacy in the area.
Community Awareness and Gun Rights
Following the incident, Borukh urged fellow homeowners to understand their rights regarding gun ownership. He stated, “I’m just trying to raise awareness for the community, because they have rights they don’t realize they have.” He criticized local government officials, asserting that they are not providing adequate support for residents facing crime. Borukh believes that knowledge of gun laws is crucial for personal safety, especially in light of rising crime rates.
Family Impact
While Borukh's youngest child, aged four, was shielded from the details of the incident, his other children are aware of what transpired. He noted that his wife remains anxious following the event, highlighting the emotional toll such experiences can have on families.
Official Statements & Responses
Local law enforcement responded to the incident, noting that two other vehicles in the vicinity had been stolen that night. Officers indicated that the burglars likely had a “quota” for the number of cars they aimed to steal. Borukh's experience has sparked discussions in the community about safety measures and the importance of being prepared for potential threats.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I always take the gun with me, because who knows.” — Moshe Borukh, Homeowner
- “It was probably one of the scariest moments of my life.” — Moshe Borukh, Homeowner
- “But the laws are still in place to help us. Just people need to know what those laws are.” — Moshe Borukh, Homeowner
This incident underscores the ongoing concerns regarding personal safety and crime in urban neighborhoods, as well as the complex discussions surrounding gun rights and community preparedness.
