MADERA, CALIFORNIA — A smash-and-grab robbery at a local jewelry store turned chaotic when the store owner pulled a gun and opened fire on a group of masked thieves, forcing them to flee in panic after stealing nearly $170,000 worth of merchandise.
The attempted robbery happened around 7 p.m. on Thursday at Olivia’s Fine Jewelry in Madera. Surveillance footage shows five suspects dressed in black and wearing masks rushing into the store just moments after other customers had exited. The group leapt over the counters and began smashing display cases to grab high-value items.
Armed Owner Responds with Gunfire
As the robbers began their coordinated raid, the store owner came out from the back area armed with a firearm. He immediately aimed and fired three to five shots at the group, causing them to scatter. The suspects ran out of the store as the owner followed and fired additional warning shots outside. No injuries were reported.
According to Madera Police, the owner’s family also works at the shop, adding emotional weight to the incident. Officers later confirmed that none of the robbers were hit by gunfire.
Investigators Say Robbery Was Carefully Planned
Despite the owner's armed response, the robbers made off with an estimated $170,000 worth of jewelry. Authorities say the heist was not random.
“This was definitely a meticulously planned robbery,” said Madera Police Sergeant Blake Short. “It does not appear to be their first time committing something like this.”
Sergeant Short added that while the owner acted instinctively, police generally do not recommend that store owners confront suspects with firearms due to the risks involved. Investigators later found the suspects’ getaway vehicle abandoned outside city limits.
The case remains open, and officers are working to identify and locate the individuals involved.
For more cases related to robbery, self-defense, and smash-and-grab crime sprees, check out our video here:
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