Whittier Woman And Her Young Child Enter Their Home With A Burglary In Progress

WHITTIER (CBS) — A Whittier woman and her young child walked in to find a burglary in progress Tuesday afternoon about 1 p.m.

The homeowner -- who lives in the 16200 block of Honnington Street -- was punched in the head and knocked to the ground.

Rob Schmitt, reporting for CBS2 and KCAL9, interviewed the terrified woman's husband. Choosing not to appear on camera, he said his wife and young daughter -- also pushed to the floor -- were shaken up but fine.

Whittier police said the thief got away with a laptop, jewelry and other items ,including coins.

The homeowner screamed, the suspect eventually fled.

Police apprehended the man a short time later after a series of neighbors called 911.

Adam West, 30 of Buena Park was arrested on suspicion of burglary and robbery. He is being held in a Whittier jail.

Police say West was found with some of the stolen coins in his possession. He reportedly ditched the laptop and jewelry several blocks from the scene of the crime.

Schmitt also spoke to resident George Martinez who lauded his neighbors for being watchful.