DeKalb Burglary Suspect Caught in Air Vent

Police apprehend man after owner spots him on roof security cameras

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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DeKalb County police arrested a burglary suspect named Anthony Roach after he was found hiding in an air vent at a local business. The owner had spotted the suspect on security cameras on the roof, prompting a search that led to the discovery of forced entry and tampering with the HVAC system. Police used a K-9 and specialized equipment to locate Roach inside the vent, where they also seized burglary tools and a firearm.

Why it matters

Burglaries and property crimes remain a persistent issue in the Atlanta metro area, with DeKalb County seeing its share of such incidents. This arrest highlights the importance of security systems and vigilant business owners in helping law enforcement apprehend suspects and protect local businesses.

The details

According to police, officers responded to a burglary in progress call at Atlanta Fixture and Sales in the Doraville area after the owner spotted the suspect on the roof via live security camera footage. A search of the property revealed signs of forced entry and tampering with the building's HVAC system. Police then used a K-9 unit and specialized equipment to locate the suspect, identified as 32-year-old Anthony Roach, hiding inside an air vent. Authorities also seized burglary tools and a firearm from Roach, who was charged with burglary and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. Police noted Roach also had outstanding warrants in the county.

  • On Monday, February 23, 2026, DeKalb police responded to the burglary call.

The players

Anthony Roach

A 32-year-old burglary suspect who was found hiding in an air vent at a DeKalb County business.

Atlanta Fixture and Sales

A DeKalb County business that was the target of the burglary attempt, which has since permanently closed according to a Google search.

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The takeaway

This incident underscores the importance of business owners remaining vigilant and utilizing security systems to help law enforcement apprehend suspects and protect local enterprises from property crimes. It also highlights the ongoing challenge of repeat offenders and the need for comprehensive solutions to address burglary and related issues in the Atlanta metro area.