his name was michael, the oldest of kay's friend becky's five kids. michael had overheard the contractor talking on the phone. >> i walked up to him. and i said, "hey, did you say something about this house being broken into?" and he was, like, "yeah." and i was, like, "well, mine has been, too." >> reporter: so now two broad daylight break-ins of across the fence neighbors. was the thief still lurking? >> i carry a firearm in my vehicle. so -- and so actually i -- i went out and got one just in case. you know, the -- i mean, the -- somebody could run out or whatever. >> reporter: he called 911. >> yeah, the back door is broke in and the next door neighbor's door is broke in. i'd called the owner, but she's not here. and i don't think -- if she's gone. i mean, i hollered into the door. >> uh-huh. >> and i didn't get no response. >> yeah, i don't want you to go in. >> reporter: the contractor followed instructions, and within minutes, law enforcement responded to the scene ready to investigate two potential burglaries right next door to each other. police taped off the area. now tamara's neighbors were calling her at work, including kay's husband david. he was traveling on business. >> he asked me, "have you spoken to kay?" and i'm, like, "no, not today.