Suspected La Mesa prowler arrested after dramatic chase

Cameras captured the incident as police chased down the suspect who tried to break into a couple's home.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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A loitering complaint led to an attempted break-in at a La Mesa couple's home and a police foot chase, according to La Mesa Police Department. Cameras were rolling when police chased down and arrested the suspect, who was discovered halfway inside a small window by the couple's dining room table.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing concerns about property crime and home invasions in residential neighborhoods, and the importance of quick police response to protect public safety.

The details

Devin Pugh and their partner Jacob were at home on Tuesday night when they heard shattering glass and discovered a man halfway inside a small window by their dining room table. The suspect, who had a prior loitering complaint, tried to break in through the window but couldn't get fully inside. Police arrived quickly and chased the suspect down the block before arresting him. The suspect was bloodied from the broken window but suffered no life-threatening injuries.

  • The incident took place around 10:30 PM on Tuesday night.
  • Police responded within minutes and chased down the suspect.

The players

Devin Pugh

A La Mesa resident whose home was the target of the attempted break-in.

Jacob

Devin Pugh's partner, who was also present during the attempted break-in.

Jonathon Nordeman

A neighbor who witnessed the police response and search of the area.

La Mesa Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and arrested the suspect.

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What they’re saying

“I honestly thought the cabinet ripped off the wall and all the dishes were breaking.”

— Devin Pugh (nbcsandiego.com)

“The guy said I need help. I need help. Then Jacob said, 'You need to get out of my house. We had glass everywhere: huge shards tiny slivers and powder.”

— Devin Pugh (nbcsandiego.com)

“Before you knew it, we had seven cop cars here. There were cops all over the place on both sides.”

— Jonathon Nordeman, Neighbor (nbcsandiego.com)

“It's unnerving to think people are trying to break in the back.”

— Jonathon Nordeman, Neighbor (nbcsandiego.com)

“I don't want to get shot — that don't feel good. You all listen.”

— Suspect (nbcsandiego.com)

What’s next

La Mesa police are still determining what charges the suspect could face.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the need for vigilance and quick police response to protect residential neighborhoods from property crimes and home invasions, which can have lasting impacts on the sense of safety and security for local residents.