A quiet neighborhood turned crime scene as an unknown man tore through a Saskatoon rooftop to access a couple’s attic — sparking safety concerns and police response.
Saskatoon, SK — In a baffling and frightening event that left an elderly couple shaken, a man smashed a hole through the roof of their Saskatoon home and climbed into their attic, attempting to hide from authorities. The bizarre break-in, which occurred in the early hours of Monday morning, has left the community stunned and raising questions about public safety, mental health, and home security.
A Morning Like No Other
Harold and Margaret Simmons, both retired and in their 70s, were enjoying what they believed to be a peaceful Monday morning in their Nutana neighborhood home — until they heard loud crashing noises above them. At first, they assumed it was an animal on the roof or falling debris caused by the recent windstorm. But what followed was far more alarming.
“We thought maybe raccoons got into the attic,” said Harold. “But then we heard footsteps. Human footsteps. That’s when I knew something was wrong.”
The couple immediately contacted 911 after hearing sustained noises from the attic and seeing insulation falling through the ceiling vents.
Police Arrive to Uncover a Chilling Scene
When officers from the Saskatoon Police Service (SPS) arrived at the scene, they initially thought it might be a false alarm or a misunderstanding. But upon further inspection of the exterior, they discovered a large, jagged hole in the Simmons’ roof — and signs that someone had forcibly climbed through it.
Officers entered the attic through the upper crawlspace and, after a brief search, found a man curled up and attempting to conceal himself beneath insulation and ductwork. The suspect, identified as a 34-year-old male with no fixed address, was removed and taken into custody without incident. He is now facing multiple charges including breaking and entering, mischief, and trespassing at night.
Motives Still Unclear
Police have not yet released a definitive motive for the break-in, but early investigations suggest the man may have been under the influence of drugs or experiencing a mental health crisis. He had no known connection to the Simmons family or the neighborhood.
“We’re still working to determine why the individual chose this house and this method,” said SPS spokesperson Cpl. Dana Turner. “It’s certainly not something we encounter often — someone forcibly entering a roof to hide in an attic. This case is highly unusual.”
The suspect reportedly had minor injuries from the entry, including scrapes and bruises from roofing shingles and insulation fibers. No weapons were found.
Impact on the Victims
For the Simmons family, the psychological toll has been immense. “It’s terrifying,” Margaret said. “You think your home is your safe place. But to know someone was just above us, hiding? I haven’t slept since.”
The couple’s insurance is expected to cover the structural damage, which contractors estimate will cost between $10,000 and $15,000 to repair. However, experts say the emotional impact may linger longer than the physical one.
Community Concerns and Public Reaction
News of the incident spread quickly through local media and social platforms, with many Saskatoon residents expressing shock and unease.
“This is why I installed security cameras,” one resident commented on Facebook. “If someone can just punch a hole in your roof, then what’s next?”
Community leaders are urging residents to remain calm but vigilant. “This appears to be an isolated incident,” said Ward 6 Councillor Cynthia Block. “But it does highlight the importance of mental health outreach and public safety programs.”
Home Security and Prevention Tips
In response to the incident, local authorities are encouraging residents to take the following steps to ensure their home security:
Install motion-sensor lighting on all sides of your home.
Use security cameras, especially around entrances and rooftops.
Check attic access points and ensure they are secure from both inside and outside.
Report suspicious behavior immediately to police or neighborhood watch programs.
Home security expert Jordan Miles notes, “While this event is highly unusual, it underlines a larger issue — many homes are vulnerable in ways we don’t usually consider, like roof vents or crawlspaces.”
Mental Health and Housing Challenges in Focus
Though details about the suspect’s mental state remain under investigation, the case has reignited discussion around homelessness and mental health services in Saskatoon.
Advocates argue that incidents like this are not just criminal matters but symptoms of larger social issues. “We don’t excuse his actions,” said Ellen Gray of the Saskatoon Homelessness Coalition, “but we have to ask: why did he feel the need to hide in someone’s attic? What help did he not receive before that point?”
The suspect is currently undergoing a psychological evaluation, and his next court appearance is scheduled for later this week.
A Community on Edge, But United
As repairs begin on the Simmons’ home, neighbors have rallied around the couple, offering support and even meals. “It’s scary,” said neighbor Trevor Lang. “But if anything, this brought us closer. We’re checking on each other more, locking things up better, and just being more aware.”
For Harold and Margaret, the days ahead will be focused on recovery — emotional and physical. “We’ll heal,” Harold said. “But we’ll never forget that sound — of someone breaking through your roof just to get inside.”
If you have any information about similar incidents or individuals in distress, contact the Saskatoon Police Service or local mental health hotlines.
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