July 19, 2025 | Riverton, CO – A Riverton mother is being praised for her quick and courageous actions after she protected her two young children from a stranger who entered her property while they were playing in the family garage on Thursday afternoon.
According to police reports, the children—ages 6 and 8—were playing with toys in the open garage of their suburban home when a man, described as “acting suspicious and disoriented,” walked up the driveway and began speaking to them.
The children reportedly became uncomfortable and ran inside to alert their mother, 34-year-old Jessica Ramirez. Within moments, Ramirez came outside and confronted the man, ordering him to leave her property immediately.
“He kept asking questions about my kids and tried to step into the garage,” Ramirez told local reporters. “That’s when I stepped between him and the garage and told him to back off. I wasn’t going to let him near them.”
Security camera footage shared with police shows Ramirez firmly instructing the man to leave, while holding her phone and calling 911. The man left the property on foot and was later located by officers several blocks away. Authorities say he was taken into custody for questioning and is undergoing a psychiatric evaluation.
Riverton Police say no harm was done to the children thanks to their mother’s swift response.
“Her calm but assertive actions helped prevent what could have been a very dangerous situation,” said Sgt. Leo Carmichael. “This is a reminder to always stay alert and keep garages and entry points secured, even during daytime hours.”
Neighbors in the quiet community expressed shock at the incident and have started discussing forming a neighborhood watch group in response.
Meanwhile, Ramirez says she’s just thankful her kids are safe. “I told them they did the right thing by running to get me. I’ll always protect them—but it’s good to know they’re learning to protect themselves too.”
