A Dallas man returned home from a work trip to discover the unthinkable — a burglar in a red robe had methodically emptied his apartment of nearly everything he owned, just days before Christmas.
Aaron Pace’s Lake Highlands apartment in the 6900 block of Forest Lane was burglarized around 1 a.m. Wednesday while he was away, according to surveillance footage that captured the bizarre crime in detail.
But the brazen theft didn’t end there. After the initial break-in, the robed intruder returned the next day with a young accomplice — this time wearing Pace’s own clothes — to cart away what little remained of his possessions, including televisions, electronics, and even kitchen supplies.
Holiday Heist Leaves Resident Starting Over
What makes this crime particularly devastating? The timing couldn’t be worse for Pace, who now faces rebuilding his life during what should be a festive holiday season. The security footage shows the bizarre sight of the thief casually strolling through the property in loungewear — a red robe and slippers — while systematically stripping the residence bare.
Neighbors in the Lake Highlands community have expressed shock at both the thoroughness and unusual nature of the crime. Most burglars grab valuables quickly and flee, but this methodical approach — returning multiple times and even changing into the victim’s clothing — suggests an unsettling level of comfort and brazenness.
“You hear about break-ins, but rarely do you see someone literally take everything,” said one resident who asked not to be identified. “It’s like they were shopping.”
Dallas police are investigating the incident, though no arrests have been reported as of publication. The department has encouraged anyone with information to come forward.
For Pace, the road ahead involves not just replacing valuable electronics but rebuilding the everyday essentials most people take for granted — from kitchen utensils to clothing. Friends in the community have reportedly begun organizing assistance efforts to help him recover from the pre-Christmas calamity.
Security experts note that extended absences like work trips can make residences vulnerable, particularly during the holiday season when package deliveries and travel plans create opportunities for observant criminals.
As Pace picks up the pieces, his case serves as a stark reminder of how quickly one’s sense of security and personal space can be violated — by someone brazen enough to not only steal possessions, but briefly inhabit another person’s life, right down to their wardrobe.
