California mom Kiara Ortiz chases down burglary suspects, smashes window of getaway car with bare hand after catching them exiting her home

A brave California mom took matters into her own hands when she caught two burglars leaving her home in Torrance, in southwestern Los Angeles. Kiara Ortiz, who had just picked up lunch with her two children, spotted the thieves exiting their apartment on Saturday. She immediately noticed one of them carrying her son’s piggy bank and decided to take action.

Ortiz, a personal fitness trainer, chased after the burglars as they made a run for it towards a dark green BMW. She even managed to catch up to the car before they could escape, using her bare hand to smash the BMW’s rear window in an attempt to stop them. The thieves sped off, narrowly missing hitting another driver as they fled with Ortiz’s jewelry, cash, her son’s piggy bank, and even her handgun from a lockbox in her bedroom.

Despite the ordeal leaving her feeling violated and angry, Ortiz is grateful that her family is safe and wasn’t home when the burglars ransacked their apartment. During the chase, her son was able to snap a photo of the BMW’s license plate, which unfortunately turned out to be stolen and did not match the car. The Torrance Police Department is actively investigating the burglary, urging community members to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior.

According to a crime analysis report released by the Torrance Police Department in April, there have been 86 residential burglaries in the city in 2025. The department is dedicated to ensuring the safety of the community and is working to bring the thieves to justice. Ortiz’s bravery and quick thinking in the face of danger serve as a reminder to stay alert and take action against crime in the neighborhood.