HOUSTON -- Two women and a man accused of breaking into homes in the Heights on Thursday took a baby along for the ride, police told KPRC Local 2.

Houston police said there was a TV, a computer and Huggies diapers in the back of the group's SUV.

A witness played a critical role in ending the crime spree, investigators said.

"They were going real slow," said Roy Gilliam, who was delivering mail. "They pulled into that driveway and I knew something wasn't right."

He saw the baby and had one thought.

"That's not very good parenting," said Gilliam. "You shouldn't put child in harm. Anything could happen."

Gilliam asked retired police Sgt. Tommy Britt, who lives around the corner, to help. He hopped in his truck, and started chasing the SUV.

"The whole time I'm thinking this isn't smart," said Britt. "I pledged to stop when it got dangerous."

Britt's 35 years on the force taught him not to give up. He called 911 right away, and 20 minutes later the chase ended in Montrose.

Police said they believe the women and the man tried to break into at least three homes and hit nearby apartments.

The baby boy is safe and the three suspects were taken into custody.

Neighbors said their community is a little safer thanks to two unlikely partners.