In a harrowing incident in Sterling, Colorado, an 8-year-old girl bravely fought off an intruder attempting to kidnap her during a violent late-night break-in. Court documents reveal that the suspect, 56-year-old Thomas Gallegos, was arrested on multiple charges, including attempted kidnapping, assault, child abuse, and burglary.
The attack took place around 2:30 a.m. on October 15, and Gallegos had recently helped the girl’s family with home repairs just two days prior to the incident.
The attack unfolded when Gallegos allegedly entered the girl’s bedroom, blindfolding her in an effort to take her. When she awoke and resisted, he reportedly struck her in the head, causing her to lose consciousness.
After the assault, Gallegos fled the scene, but the girl managed to alert her mother once she regained consciousness. Injuries sustained by the victim included a contusion to her right eye and a laceration at the back of her head that required staples for treatment.
8-Year-Old Girl Fights Off Intruder Attempting Kidnapping in Sterling, Colorado
During the investigation, a clown mask and a pair of gloves were discovered in the girl’s room. Authorities were able to identify Gallegos as a suspect through surveillance footage and location data retrieved from the girl’s phone, which he had taken. The evidence painted a troubling picture, linking him to the crime scene at the time of the break-in.
In his interview with police, Gallegos claimed he was in Denver when the incident occurred. However, the affidavit indicates that he ceased cooperating with investigators after expressing a desire to stop talking. Subsequently, law enforcement obtained a court order to collect DNA and cellphone data from him for further analysis. It remains unclear whether he has secured legal representation.
Gallegos’ wife provided additional context during her interview with investigators, asserting that her husband denied the allegations. Nevertheless, she confirmed that the man seen in the security footage, wearing dark clothing and carrying a clown mask, was indeed her husband. She noted that the mask belonged to their grandson, further linking Gallegos to the disturbing events of that night.
