URBANA, Ill. – A 60-year-old man has been arrested following a reported home invasion Tuesday afternoon in the 1800 block of South Cottage Grove Avenue, Urbana Police announced.
According to authorities, Michael A. Willis entered the victim’s residence around 2:10 p.m. by falsely claiming to be a maintenance worker. Once inside, Willis allegedly used physical force in an attempt to steal money. The victim was able to push him away and escape to call 911.
Officers began searching the area and located Willis just over an hour later—still in the 1800 block of South Cottage Grove—where he was taken into custody without incident.
The Urbana Police Department thanked community members for their quick cooperation, which helped bring the incident to a safe and swift resolution. Officials remind residents to verify the identity of anyone requesting access to their home and to report any suspicious behavior.
Willis remains in custody as the investigation continues. Police are asking anyone with further information to call 217-384-2320, or to leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers at 217-373-TIPS or 373tips.com. Cash rewards are available for tips leading to arrests.
All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
