Doorbell Camera Captures Stranger Knocking at 1 A.M., Leaving Homeowner Terrified

S.C. — A late-night encounter caught on a home security camera is unnerving viewers across social media after a homeowner shared footage of a stranger walking up to their door and knocking just after 1 a.m.

The video, captured by a Eufy security doorbell camera and timestamped October 19, 2025, at 1:11 a.m., shows a person approaching a suburban home after apparently seeing someone inside through the window. The unknown figure then knocks and rings the doorbell before walking away, leaving the homeowner terrified and sleepless.

The Late-Night Encounter

The homeowner, who shared the footage online, said they were alone in the living room with the lights on and blinds open when the incident happened.

“This man (or woman?) walks past, sees me through the window and approaches, knocks and rings the doorbell,” the homeowner wrote. “I was scared and of course didn’t answer.”

They added that they didn’t have access to the footage until the next morning, meaning they spent the entire night awake and anxious, wondering who it could have been.

When the video was finally reviewed, the homeowner said they were “horrified” to see the stranger’s face illuminated by the doorbell camera under the streetlight.

Community Reaction and Online Concern

The post quickly went viral on social platforms like Reddit and Nextdoor, with thousands of users commenting on the unsettling clip. Many shared similar experiences of late-night knocks or mysterious visitors, while others urged the homeowner to contact local authorities and file a police report.

“That’s terrifying. Someone coming to your door that late is never a good sign,” one commenter said.

“Could be casing the house. Keep your lights off and cameras on,” another added.

Several users noted that incidents like this have become increasingly common, especially in quiet residential areas where home security cameras often catch strangers lurking or testing door handles in the early hours.

Police Safety Advice

While there’s no confirmation yet of any criminal intent in this particular case, law enforcement officials recommend residents take all unannounced late-night visits seriously.

According to the Saluda County Sheriff’s Office, residents should:

• Avoid opening the door to strangers at night.
• Use intercom or video features to communicate if necessary.
• Call local authorities to request a welfare check or suspicious person investigation.
• Keep exterior lights and cameras active throughout the night.

“Never assume it’s harmless curiosity,” a sheriff’s spokesperson advised. “Someone approaching your door at that hour without reason is cause for concern.”

Growing Dependence on Doorbell Cameras

Incidents like this highlight the increasing importance of home security technology. Smart cameras and doorbells from brands like Eufy, Ring, and Nest have become essential tools in identifying suspicious visitors — often serving as evidence in police investigations.

Many homeowners now rely on these devices for both safety and peace of mind, especially when living alone.

An Unsettling Reminder

The homeowner said they have since adjusted their nighttime routine — closing blinds earlier and double-checking locks before bed.

“It’s creepy to think someone saw me sitting there and decided to walk up,” they wrote. “I didn’t sleep at all that night.”

The person’s identity remains unknown, and no follow-up incident has been reported since the encounter.

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