Mob of more than 30 storms Saint Laurent in Glendale, steals nearly $300K worth of merchandise
Police are investigating a "flash mob" robbery involving between 30 and 40 people in Glendale on Tuesday, when the Saint Laurent store was hit for nearly $300,000 in stolen goods.
According to Glendale Police Department, the group hit the store, located inside of the Americana on S. Brand Boulevard, just before 5 p.m.
Witnesses told police that the massive group stormed the store and took off with dozens of items before fleeing from the area in approximately 20 different cars.
"The suspects stole clothing and other merchandise before fleeing on foot and leaving the location in numerous vehicles," said Glendale Police Department Sgt. Victor Jackson.
Despite briefly pursuing one of the cars, Glendale police were unable to catch the suspect and called the chase off out of interest for public safety.
No one was injured in the incident, and no weapons are believed to have been used.
As they continue their investigation, detectives report that they have gathered some evidence that may be of use in identifying some of the suspects involved.
They are unsure if the incident is related to any other robberies that have happened in the area in recent weeks.
Rick Caruso's company, which owns the mall, has offered a $50,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspects involved, police said.
"At Caruso, we stand firm in our commitment to the security of our guests, tenants, residents and employees," said a statement from a company spokesperson. "Our company's top priority is to maintain a safe and family-friendly environment across all of our properties, and we will not tolerate any criminal activity."
Glendale Mayor Dan Brotman issued a statement following the incident.
"As the leaders of the City of Glendale, we are deeply concerned about the incident that occurred yesterday at the Yves Saint Laurent store in our community," the mayor's statement said. "Yesterday, a brazen group of individuals orchestrated a coordinated attack on the Yves Saint Laurent store at the Americana at Brand. This calculated criminal act not only resulted in the theft of valuable merchandise but also posed a threat to the safety and well-being of our community."
Anyone with information on the case was urged to call police at (818) 548-4911.
