Grandfather fights would-be burglar; suspect arrested

NORTH MIAMI BEACH, Fla. (WSVN) -- A homeowner had to fight back to protect himself and his two grandchildren from a man who police believe tried to break into the family's home.

Fifty-eight-year-old Jorge Sanchez said his home along Northeast 16th Avenue and 181st Street has been burglarized numerous times.

Wednesday night, Sanchez' two grandchildren were at his home. The family was sleeping, when Sanchez heard noises in his backyard. Authorities believe the suspect, Troy Agner, was trying to break into the North Miami Beach residence. "That is the fifth time," he said, and mentioned he was fed up with all the burglaries.

Sanchez took a piece of wood from the wooden fence and hit Agner in an effort to defend his home and protect his grandchildren, ages 1 and 3. "I took a piece of wood. He was coming to me with a knife and screwdriver. He was like aggressive to me, and with the wood, I [beat him]," Sanchez said. "[I punched him] three or four times in the head."

According to the grandfather of two, he was not afraid to fight back. "At that time no, [I wasn't scared]. This is for my kids," he said.

Agner was arrested, and the extent of his physical injuries can clearly be seen in his mug shot: cuts and abrasions on his face, a bloody ear and staples in the back of his head to close up several huge gashes.

A female suspect also reportedly took part in the foiled burglary, but it is unknown if she has been arrested.

Sanchez' son said the crooks tried to steal some bikes and several household items.

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