Thefts worth over $100,000 in copper wire, tools, and vehicles were reported in American Canyon, California. The burglary, which occurred on July 6, 2026, in the 1100 block of Green Island Road, took an unexpected turn when a selfie photo became the pivotal evidence in the case.
The investigation, led by the American Canyon Police Department, identified two vehicles linked to the crime. The following day, the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office stopped one of these vehicles, leading to the detention of the driver, Daniel Lemas 53, of Hayward.
The Role of the Selfie Photo
The selfie photo, allegedly showing Lemas committing the burglary, was a significant piece of evidence. This digital footprint led to Lemas’s arrest on charges of burglary. He was subsequently booked into the Napa County Department of Corrections on multiple felony charges.
On July 8, 2026, the Hayward Police Department stopped the second vehicle connected to the burglary. The driver, Dennis Tylij 49, of Hayward, was detained and later arrested by American Canyon police on a felony conspiracy charge. Tylij was also booked into the Napa County Department of Corrections.
The Search Warrant and Recovered Property
Investigators executed a search warrant at a home in the 3200 block of Arden Road in Hayward. This operation, involving American Canyon police, Napa County Sheriff’s detectives, Hayward police officers, and members of the Napa Special Investigations Bureau, resulted in the recovery of some of the stolen property.
The case highlights the importance of digital evidence in modern policing. The selfie photo, intended as a memento, became a critical piece of evidence that helped solve the burglary. As of now, Lemas has posted $25,000 bail and was released from custody, while Tylij remains jailed.
The American Canyon Police Department continues to emphasize the role of community vigilance and technological advancements in combating crime. This case serves as a reminder of the unexpected ways digital footprints can impact criminal investigations.
