SOUTH HADLEY - Police are investigating a housebreak in which guns and ammunition were reported stolen.

Police Sgt. Steve Parentela said Tuesday that the crime occurred Monday at a single-family home on Spring Street Extension. A handgun, rifle and ammunition were taken, along with some household goods, he said.

The break was discovered about noon after a neighbor called police about a suspicious vehicle seen near the home. The homeowners were away at the time, he said.

Parentela said the neighbor waited about 15 minutes before notifying police, thinking the matter was too trivial to bother local law enforcement. He emphasized that neighbors witnessing any unusual activity should call police at once.

"It's better to call as soon as possible," he said. "If we're tied up because of an emergency, we'll get there as soon as we can."

- ETTA WALSH