A 12-year-old boy's quick thinking led to the arrest of a home intruder in Medford, New York, on December 23. While home alone, Tristen Taylor heard glass shatter in the kitchen and then detected someone moving through the house, according to a press release from the Suffolk County Police Department.

Reacting quickly, Tristen jumped out of his ground-floor bedroom window. He then saw an unfamiliar man ransacking his house. Hiding behind the garage, Tristen called the police at 12:50 PM and remained on the line until officers arrived.

Police arrived at the Medford home within three minutes and found the suspect still inside. The intruder was identified as Christian Garcia, a 53-year-old homeless man. Authorities stated Garcia had gained entry by breaking a kitchen window.

Tristen Taylor gives an interview after the incident. Photo: CBS

Police confirmed Tristen was unharmed. Recalling the frightening moment, Tristen told KCRG-TV, "I told myself 'I have to get out of the house fast'".

Tristen's grandmother hailed him as the family's "little hero". "We are very proud Tristen remained calm and called the police so quickly," she said. The family believes Tristen's swift actions stemmed from good instincts and movies he had watched.

Neighbors also regard Tristen as a hero for thwarting a brazen burglar. Neighbor Mike Campanella commented, "I hope my son could do the same. When someone breaks into your house, you need to get out and call the police."

Christian Garcia faces charges of third-degree burglary and possession of burglary tools.

Tue Anh (according to People, CBS)