Who says senior citizens can’t take care of themselves?

A man that broke into a Timber Trail residence just after 7 p.m. Saturday might have been looking to burglarize the home.

He might have raped the woman who lived there.

But neither scenario ever played out.

Thanks to the quick thinking and acting by the 82-year-old homeowner, the man ran out empty-handed.

Police advise that a man, white or Hispanic, 30-35 years old, approximately 5’10” and 160 pounds, came into the victim’s bedroom and began to fondle her.

Not only did the woman, whose name has not been released, fight him off, but she reached over and pressed a button on her personal-response system, which is designed to summon help immediately. That action turned on an intercom in her room and an operator asked the victim if she was alright. Hearing the operator, the intruder fled the residence.

The suspect was described as wearing jeans and a sweatshirt. He allegedly called the woman by name, so police believe he knew her.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective John Jones at 923-2196 or the Crime Line at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP. Callers never have to give their name or appear in court, and could qualify for a cash reward of up to $1,000.