Dozens of individuals ransacked a family-run business in Bellflower, California, during a large street takeover event over the weekend. The group used power tools to breach the security gate of A-Z Market, leading to an estimated $30,000 in losses from stolen merchandise and property damage.
Surveillance video captured approximately 40 suspects entering the store, according to the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department. The footage shows three individuals using tools to break the front window and cut the security gate lock. An additional 40 suspects then entered the market and looted it for two minutes before rejoining the street takeover crowd. The business is located in southeast Los Angeles County.
The family described A-Z Market as their livelihood and a cornerstone of the local community. The notes indicated that the incident caused extensive property damage, with aisles scattered and display cases broken.
While multiple citations were issued for the street takeover itself, no arrests were made in connection with the burglary. Deputies stated they could not directly link any individuals present at the scene to the break-in.
In a separate incident days prior, 26 suspects reportedly carried out a similar coordinated, mob-style burglary at an AutoZone in East Los Angeles. Investigators believe those suspects may have robbed that store on two consecutive days.