An armed employee at Prestige Jewelers in California thwarted a group of suspected smash-and-grab burglars who had targeted the store wielding hammers to shatter display cases and make off with valuable jewelry. The incident unfolded at approximately 12:40 p.m. last Saturday when five suspects, clad in hooded sweatshirts, barged into the Manhattan Beach store.
According to the Manhattan Beach Police Department’s statement, the assailants swiftly employed hammers to smash through the jewelry showcases. In response, an employee of the store drew a firearm and fired a single shot in the direction of the suspects. The gunfire prompted the would-be thieves to hastily retreat, fleeing the scene in cars waiting for them outside.
Authorities revealed that one suspect has been apprehended, thanks to collaborative efforts between the Manhattan Beach Police Department and the Gardena Police Department. The suspect’s identity remains undisclosed, and law enforcement is urging the public to provide any information that may aid the ongoing investigation.
Surveillance footage from the jewelry store captured the brazen intruders in the act, vividly illustrating the destructive use of hammers to pilfer the merchandise. The police department, in a Monday update, expressed confidence in the swift arrest and emphasized the dedication of law enforcement to ensuring community safety.
“This swift arrest should reassure the community that we have the most dedicated law enforcement agency and partners ensuring the safety of our community,” affirmed Mayor Richard Montgomery. He also urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity, reinforcing the collaborative efforts to maintain Manhattan Beach as a secure and thriving community.
Notably, this marks the second time Prestige Jewelers has fallen victim to smash-and-grab burglaries, with a previous incident in 2014. During that earlier crime, two individuals stormed the store, making off with $250,000 worth of Rolex watches in less than a minute. In stark contrast to the recent events, the 2014 crime lacked the intervention of an armed employee. Instead, the store’s manager’s screams served as the sole deterrence.
