In a brazen daytime robbery, masked suspects stormed a jewelry store in Anaheim Hills, California, using a vehicle to break through the front entrance. Surveillance footage captured the chaos as thieves ransacked the store before fleeing in multiple getaway cars, which later crashed during police pursuits.
This incident underscores a troubling trend of escalated criminal activity in urban areas, compounding fears among local business owners and residents as the holiday season approaches.
Key Developments
- The robbery occurred in broad daylight, with a vehicle crashing through the store’s entrance.
- Four suspects were seen stealing merchandise, while witnesses suggest up to ten individuals may have been involved.
- Both getaway vehicles crashed during police chases, but all suspects managed to escape on foot.
- At least five suspects have been detained, and stolen jewelry was recovered from the vehicles.
Full Report
Robbery Details
Surveillance footage from the jewelry store revealed startling scenes as a car smashed through the front door, shattering glass and disrupting everything inside. Four masked individuals, dressed in black and armed with tools, quickly moved to loot display cases. One individual acted as a lookout while the others gathered valuables. A stunned customer, immobile with a phone in hand, attempted to document the unfolding event.
Immediate Aftermath
Following the robbery, the suspects fled the scene and were soon pursued by law enforcement. The first getaway vehicle crashed, involving multiple other cars, while the second incident occurred about five minutes later. Investigators reported recovering trays of stolen jewelry from the accident sites. Despite the swift police response, most of the suspects eluded capture initially.
Store Owner’s Account
Ramcy Tabelo, the owner of the jewelry store, recounted the traumatic incident, stating that the suspects had also taken a firearm from his establishment. “I thought I was going to get shot,” he told reporters, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
Context & Previous Events
The increase in such aggressive crimes raises alarm among retailers, especially as the holiday shopping season begins. Reports of similar heists have been noted in various regions, prompting concerns over safety for both businesses and shoppers alike.
