3 girls honored for helping nab burglars

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Three girls, ages 9 and 11, were honored Wednesday for their bravery during a home invasion in Chicago's Jefferson Park neighborhood. Their efforts helped

The girls, whose parents did not want them identified, hid in a locked bathroom and called 911 as burglars tried to enter their home on June 15.

CPD Cmdr. William Looney said "for the first time ever, the Feller family left their 11 and 9 year old home with another 11 year old. Dad was downtown at a meeting when he says all hell broke loose."

Off-duty firefighter Tim Sanders and his wife also played a role. Sanders, a former Iowa State middle linebacker, tackled one of the suspects and held him for police, who responded to the girls' 911 call within two minutes.

The Chicago Police Department's 16th District commander presented the girls with the commendation for bravery and civil service. It happened after afternoon roll call with aldermen and family present.

The girls said they were delighted by the day's events, but said the fear they felt during the break-in is still with them. Their advice for other kids? Keep your cool and always have your phone handy.