"We really don't know why they were targeted. We are looking at whether or not it was because of the fact they had recently purchased a new vehicle, and that the suspect felt they had perhaps money in the home. A new vehicle generally doesn't prompt somebody to believe that but maybe there are some other factors we are not aware of yet," said Chief Dyer.
There's speculation the Cadillac Escalade in the driveway of the modest complex attracted the robbers. Police sent drug sniffing dogs into the apartment ... because, according to Chief Dyer, drugs are the primary motive for these types of robberies.
"The chances of an average citizen becoming the victim of a home invasion robbery is very, very, very slim. Unless that person is associated with a certain lifestyle, mostly dealing drugs, then their odds go up," said Dyer.
Dyer says it appears home invasion robberies are on the rise in the Valley and around the state. John Rose lives near the latest Fresno incident.
"It seems to me this is a very good reason to increase our law enforcement not decrease it at this time," said Rose.
But Rose added that he's not too worried about becoming a victim. "No, I got big dogs (laughs) I've got four big dogs I don't worry too much about it, and hell I don't have anything to steal."
But Dyer says in cases where drugs are not involved, the victims have often somehow lead others to believe they do have something to steal.
"The fact is they are outspoken over the fact they have large sums of money in their residence, or jewelry and when that happens they become a target," said Dyer.
There have been at least ten home invasion robberies throughout the Central Valley in recent weeks.
