Masked Thieves Target Los Angeles Macy’s in Latest Robbery Spree
A daring mob of masked thieves struck a Macy’s store in Los Angeles on Thursday, marking another incident in a series of smash-and-grab robberies that have shaken the city. The incident unfolded in Sherman Oaks just after 12:30 p.m. Reports indicate that nine masked individuals, all in their early 20s, rushed into the store located at 14000 Riverside Drive. They swiftly filled bags with stolen items and made a swift exit.
The suspects, dressed in hooded sweatshirts and dark clothing, managed to flee the scene using two separate cars—a silver or gold Honda and a black Ford Fusion. This incident adds to a disturbing trend of organized robberies that have targeted retailers across Southern California, leaving bystanders and authorities baffled.
Only a week before this robbery, a special task force was formed to combat the surge in retail crimes in the area. This task force is a collaboration between various law enforcement agencies, including the Los Angeles Police Department, the L.A. County Sheriff’s Department, the U.S. Marshals Apprehension Task Force, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Apprehension Task Force.
In recent weeks, there have been instances of coordinated retail theft that have shocked the city. More than 30 masked individuals stormed a Nordstrom store in Canoga Park on August 12, making away with over $300,000 worth of merchandise in a “flash rob” style of theft. In this incident, a security guard was sprayed with bear spray, highlighting the violent nature of these crimes.
Mayor Karen Bass, flanked by law enforcement officials, expressed her concern about the increasing trend of smash-and-grab robberies. She emphasized that these are not victimless crimes, especially when innocent Angelenos are targeted, attacked, and subjected to fear while going about their daily lives.
To tackle this growing problem, the task force has deployed 22 full-time investigators to focus on organized retail crime. Deputy Chief Kris Pitcher, who heads the LAPD’s detective division, is overseeing these efforts.
The wave of brazen robberies has left Los Angeles residents on edge, prompting a unified response from law enforcement agencies. The city is taking a stand against these crimes, determined to restore safety and security for its citizens.