Ex-locksmith here. No evidence that someone tried to "pick" the lock (which doesn't really leave any evidence other than sometimes small scratches), but it looks like someone tried to drill and/or punch the lock. They may have succeeded and gotten inside, or they may have just jammed the lock mechanism by mistake.
Either way, you need a whole new (and probably better) lock ASAP. You also ought to consider calling police or at least checking for evidence of theft/damage inside.
Edit: A bunch of people here have asked me for deadbolt recommendations. There are many people out there who I believe are more qualified and up with the current tech and trends, so you might wish to consult a local locksmith or do some online research, but I will give a couple of recommendations to consider. My recommendations take into account things like cost, convenience, durability, resistance to various force attacks, resistance to picking, etc.
For a basic deadbolt of overall good quality: The Yale Model 82. For a really good high-security (but pricey) deadbolt, the Medeco Maxum. For a good keyless deadbolt, the Schlage Model 375.
Hope that helps all of you a bit. Stay safe out there!
UPDATE: the locks are being changed and no one was hiding in the house. Thanks everybody for the advice, knowledge, no country for old men references and home invader scenario nightmare fuel. Have a great day!
JerseyWiseguy on January 16th, 2022 at 04:32 UTC »
Ex-locksmith here. No evidence that someone tried to "pick" the lock (which doesn't really leave any evidence other than sometimes small scratches), but it looks like someone tried to drill and/or punch the lock. They may have succeeded and gotten inside, or they may have just jammed the lock mechanism by mistake.
Either way, you need a whole new (and probably better) lock ASAP. You also ought to consider calling police or at least checking for evidence of theft/damage inside.
Edit: A bunch of people here have asked me for deadbolt recommendations. There are many people out there who I believe are more qualified and up with the current tech and trends, so you might wish to consult a local locksmith or do some online research, but I will give a couple of recommendations to consider. My recommendations take into account things like cost, convenience, durability, resistance to various force attacks, resistance to picking, etc.
For a basic deadbolt of overall good quality: The Yale Model 82. For a really good high-security (but pricey) deadbolt, the Medeco Maxum. For a good keyless deadbolt, the Schlage Model 375.Hope that helps all of you a bit. Stay safe out there!
MasterJakestar on January 16th, 2022 at 10:22 UTC »
No Country for Old Men break-in attempt is what I’d like to imagine.
jems4u____ on January 16th, 2022 at 20:34 UTC »
UPDATE: the locks are being changed and no one was hiding in the house. Thanks everybody for the advice, knowledge, no country for old men references and home invader scenario nightmare fuel. Have a great day!