Over $500,000 in jewelry stolen by smash-and-grab robbers in Pasadena.
Thieves Steal Over Half a Million Dollars in Jewelry in Daring Pasadena Robbery
In a shocking incident that has left the Pasadena community stunned, a group of daring thieves managed to escape with more than $500,000 worth of jewelry from Jewels on Lake, a popular jewelry store located at 415 S. Lake Ave. The incident took place on August 29 at around 1:45 p.m., according to Pasadena Police Lt. Monica Cuellar.
“The owner was escorting a client outside the store when a group of three males forced their way into the store, proceeded to smash jewelry display cases with hammers, and fled the store with more than $500,000 worth of jewelry,” she said.
The brazen criminals even went as far as pepper-spraying the store owner during their escape. The owner, Sam Babikian, recounted the terrifying ordeal to KTLA5, saying, “As soon as I opened the door, I got pepper sprayed right in my eye, my throat, my mouth. I couldn’t see anything. Then [all] I could hear was smashing and grabbing.”
Despite the chaos, Babikian managed to find a hidden panic button inside the shop and alert the police. However, the damage had already been done. It is estimated that between $650,000 to $750,000 worth of jewelry was stolen during the break-in.
“Most of my merchandise is gone,” Babikian lamented. “Most of the showcases are empty. This one hurts. I’m very grateful they did not harm me, they did not fight. Thank god that nothing happened to me and I’m still alive.”
Authorities are currently investigating the incident and are collaborating with other agencies to gather information on similar crimes. They believe there may have been a fourth suspect acting as the getaway driver in a dark-colored sedan.
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Anyone with information about the crime is urged to contact the Pasadena Police at 626-744-4241 or Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the Crime Stoppers website.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by businesses and the importance of remaining vigilant in the face of such threats. As the investigation continues, the Pasadena community stands in solidarity with Sam Babikian and hopes for a swift resolution to this shocking crime.
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