BREAKING: Police Arrest Suspect in Cranford Burglary

UPDATE (9/23/09 6:14 p.m.): The suspect, Bryan Muscatello, was once a resident of Cranford, according to police and an older Cranford High School yearbook.

Police arrested a man Friday night after he reportedly attempted to break into a home on Columbia Avenue in Cranford.

Bryan Muscatello, 26, of Winn Road in Tabernacle, was arrested and charged with attempted burglary and criminal mischief. He is being held in Union County Jail with bail at $15,000.

Police are still investigating the suspect’s possible connection with the recent burglaries in Cranford and the surrounding towns.

At around 8:20 p.m., the owner of a residence on Columbia Avenue heard some noises in his backyard. When he looked out, he saw the suspect running from his yard and gave chase. The suspect then jumped into a vehicle and fled.

Cranford Officer Derek Farbenec stopped what police say was the same vehicle on Elizabeth Avenue and placed the suspect under arrest.

Further investigation revealed that the suspect had reportedly smashed the rear window of the residence. This is the second time this residence has been involved in a break-in attempt. Police are investigating whether Muscatello had been involved in the first attempt.

Chief Eric Mason urges residents to continue to be vigilant, and to always lock their doors and windows.