Beware of Strangers Looming at Your Fence Gate.

A late-night shadow at the fence or iron gate is the kind of thing that makes hearts race and instincts kick in. If you spot someone lingering outside your yard, as a few residents have reported on social media in the last couple of days, you do not have to guess what to do. Stay safe, document what you can, and contact law enforcement!

First things first: if you believe anyone is in immediate danger, call 911. For non-emergency concerns or to report suspicious individuals who are not actively threatening anyone, contact the Benbrook Police Department at 817-249-1610 or visit the city’s police page for more information.

A practical checklist to keep calm and act smart

• Move to a safe place inside your home and lock the doors. Do not approach or confront the person.
• Call 911 if the person appears to be trespassing, threatening, or carrying a weapon. Otherwise, call the Benbrook nonemergency number.
• Turn on the exterior lights and, if possible, switch the security cameras to record mode—note timestamps. Video and clear photos are the most useful evidence.
• Give dispatch precise details: location, time, direction the person went, clothing, vehicle description, and license plate if visible, and any unusual behavior. Short, specific facts help officers respond effectively and investigate efficiently.
• Inform neighbors and post to neighborhood safety groups only after you have reported the incident to the police. Cross-check other cameras or doorbell footage before sharing widely.
• Preserve evidence. Do not touch anything the person may have handled. If you collect video or photos, save original files and make backups.
• Follow up with the police to ensure a report has been filed and to determine the next steps.

Why this matters

Reporting suspicious activity does more than solve one incident. It creates documentation, helps police identify patterns, and makes the neighborhood a safer place. Even if the person turns out to be harmless, your call could prevent a problem or speed a quicker response next time.

If you want to prepare now

Check your phone for the Benbrook PD nonemergency number and save it. Test cameras and lights. Discuss a watch plan with neighbors or set up a group chat for quick alerts. Most importantly, if anything feels dangerous, call 911.

Benbrook residents deserve peaceful nights and safe yards. When you notice something unusual, take a sensible action and report it.

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