A Denver family’s worst nightmare came alive in the early hours of Saturday morning when a stranger broke into their home and headed toward where their children were sleeping.
At around 3:30 a.m., the parents — Kevin and Sarah Root — were jolted awake by footsteps ascending their staircase. Realizing the seriousness of what was happening, Kevin rushed to confront the intruder while Sarah dialed 911. The intruder, later identified as 36-year-old Charley Cooley, ignored warnings and continued toward the children’s rooms.
Kevin burst through the door, grabbed the man, and pushed him down the stairs — stopping him from hurting the children. Police arrived within minutes and took Cooley into custody.
Authorities say Cooley is a repeat offender facing a second felony robbery charge this year. The family has described the ordeal as deeply traumatic, and neighbors now report feeling less safe in a neighborhood once thought secure.