Employees Foil Attempted Smash-and-Grab at California Jewelry Store

By City News Service
City News Service
City News Service
Breaking news gathering service based in West Sacramento, California, USA Gathering and distributing breaking news content via video, photographic and audio
September 3, 2023Updated: September 3, 2023

EL MONTE, Calif.—Nothing was taken during an attempted smash-and-grab robbery at a jewelry store in Los Angeles County, where a heavy-set assailant sprayed bear repellant at employees and shattered display cases in an attempt to take merchandise, authorities said Sept. 3.

The incident occurred at about 2:20 p.m. Saturday at Meza’s Jewelry at 10900 Main St., according to a watch commander at El Monte Police Department, who confirmed that no merchandise was taken from the business.

Video shows the suspect fighting with employees and having his shirt stripped off him in the melee.

According to media reports, the suspect—a man about 6-feet-1 inch tall and weighing between 270 and 300 pounds—fled the scene in a gray Dodge Charger. The suspect was balding, with some facial hair and possibly a mustache.

El Monte police urged anyone with information about the suspect or the attempted robbery to call them at 626-580-2100. Tipsters wishing to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS.