Smash-and-grab burglars steal ATMs from 2 Sylmar stores, surveillance videos show
SYLMAR, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- Surveillance videos show smash-and-grab burglars stealing ATMs from two small businesses in Sylmar earlier this week, among the latest of recent thefts that have targeted liquor stores, mini-marts and pharmacies across the San Fernando Valley.
Footage recorded at Villalongin Market on Foothill Boulevard, one block from the 210 Freeway, shows an ATM being yanked through the store's front entrance after being chained to the back of a vehicle.
The store's owner, Danny Martinez, said the theft left shelves and shattered glass scattered across the parking lot. He estimated the damage to his business to be about $6,000.
"It's very unfortunate that things like this are happening across the Valley," he said. "It's heartbreaking because I wake up every day like everybody else does, goes to work. Not only that but we're here for the community, too. We provide a lot of good for the community and create a lot of relationships, and when something like this happens it's very sad."
Less than two miles away, at about 2 a.m. Tuesday, surveillance video shows thieves using the same method to steal an ATM from Ross Liquor on San Fernando Road. The video shows two people dragging an ATM out to an SUV after tying a chain around the machine.
"I feel like we're working hard for our money and we're working like crazy," said the store's owner, Elias, who declined to give his last name. "We're trying to be nice to everybody and I hope that everybody's trying to be nice to us, too."
As of Saturday afternoon, no arrests had been made in connection with the break-ins.
Burglars hit at least 4 pharmacies in San Fernando Valley; suspects seen on surveillance video
