When Sal Mercado arrived at his Oak Park home one evening, he discovered a strange automobile with a driver parked outside his door. He shrugged it off as a coincidence and proceeded to the entrance. However, as soon as he stepped through the door, he knew why the mysterious vehicle was waiting outside.
Mercado was instantly confronted by an invader. He hit the intruder several times instinctively before fleeing to the front yard.
The suspect was a member of a well-organized “crime tourism” group, which comprises foreigners who cross state or international boundaries to commit crimes before returning home.
Sadly, the first man fled to the waiting automobile outside. Mercado then encountered a second thief. The guy dashed down the stairs, his arms bulging with devices and jewels. Mercado did what he knew best once more.
Mercado wasn’t going to let another one go without a fight. This time, he chased the robber forcefully, dragging him to the ground and detaining him while yelling for his neighbors to call the cops.
Alexis Provoste Aranguiz, a 43-year-old Chilean migrant, was recognized as the burglar. He was treated for many face fractures at a nearby hospital before being charged with conspiracy and first-degree house burglary.
Authorities stated that the thieves frequently register for visas online before flying into LAX to target residences. They’ll often investigate communities ahead of time and see how they can get in and out, Deputy Ashley Barrios explained.
While Mercado is disappointed that he was unable to get the other two thieves, he is relieved that he was able to apprehend one of them. When questioned if he would behave the same way now that he understands what he knows, he replied, he’d do it again.
Sal Mercado did all in his power to defend himself and his property. Sadly, he is correct to be worried about the judicial system, which has permitted such offenders to avoid prosecution in previous circumstances.
Although the other burglars escaped, we’re sure they won’t be coming to Mercado’s house anytime soon. Seeing his “Mike Tyson” reaction was probably enough to put them off for good.
