Four masked robbers armed with a rifle and axes raided Crown Jewelry in Lakewood, Washington, before smashing their way out of the shop and fleeing in a vehicle.
The robbery took place at about 3.30pm on Wednesday, October 28, at the store on Steilacoom Boulevard. Police said a woman was buzzed inside before holding the door open for three men wearing masks and white clothing.
One of the men was carrying what police described as a rifle, while two others had axes. They used the weapons to break open glass display cases and seized an undisclosed amount of jewellery before attempting to escape.
Masked robbers smashed their way out of Lakewood jewellery shop
The group became trapped inside when the shop’s entrance door automatically locked. They then smashed a window beside the door and climbed out, creating a noise which led people nearby to believe shots had been fired.
Lakewood police said there had been no gunfire. Several 911 calls were made by people at neighbouring businesses, but investigators concluded that the reported bangs came from the breaking glass.
“They were locked into the store and so they broke a window right next to the front door to get back out,” Sergeant Charles Porche said.
The suspects fled in a waiting vehicle. Police said all four were wearing face coverings, making them difficult to identify, and no arrests had been reported.
Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage from the shop, which shows both the robbery and the getaway vehicle. Officers have asked the owners not to release the video while leads are pursued.
Police have not said how much jewellery was taken. Sergeant Porche urged businesses and members of the public to contact investigators if anyone attempts to sell a large quantity of loose jewellery.
