A Waynesboro man is being called a hero for helping detain at gunpoint two juveniles who were breaking into cars at 4 a.m. on New Year’s Day in the Burkehaven neighborhood of Burke County.
Homeowner Justin Chance observed two youths entering vehicles on his property on Friday morning, Burke County Sheriff’s Capt. Randall Norman said in a press release.
“While many of us were sound asleep after partaking in New Year festivities, criminal mischief was afoot,” Capt. Norman said. “Fortunately for the neighbors of the Burkehaven neighborhood, Burke County homeowner Justin Chance was vigilant in those early hours.”
When Chance saw the young crooks, he “showed responsible gun ownership, overwhelming restraint and lawfully engaged the suspects at gunpoint until deputies arrived,” the captain said.
Deputies quickly arrived and took the juvenile suspects into custody. “Sheriff Alfonzo Williams would like to specially thank Mr. Chance for being a steward within the community and his successful detaining of these suspects until BCSO deputies arrived, without event,” the press release says.
Chance is not taking all of the credit, though. On a public Facebook post by the sheriff’s office, he called it a “neighborhood effort” with Jake Jenkins and his neighbor also helping in the apprehension of the young men.
He didn’t even like the word hero.
“Naw the real hero’s are the ones who do this everyday. Our law enforcement,” Chance said. “We just helping our SO when we can and will continue to. Thank you for all y’all do for us.”
While this investigation is still underway, BCSO investigators are actively working to identify the other parties involved, the press release said. Investigators are seeking the assistance of the community.
“We are asking for video footage or any additional information that could help our investigators with their investigation,” Capt. Norman said. “Those with information related to this case are asked to contact the Burke County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division at 706-554-6633 or the Burke County Sheriff’s Office at 706-554-2133.”
Also, Sheriff Williams is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the additional parties involved.
