Some thieves, however, are brazen in their attempts to get a quick profit by targeting establishments that deal in what they fear the most. Apparently the most effective method is the old smash-and-grab, only the updated version involves using a stolen car to gain entry while the business is closed.
This pattern played out twice in under two weeks in Fall City, Washington. Authorities report a pair of robbery attempts using stolen vehicles to ram through the front of the business. The most recent case, which unfolded Monday morning, was not nearly as successful as the first.
Lee Stallman is the owner of Fall City Firearms, and he recalled the incident “happened in moments.” Thankfully, he was prepared.
“Somebody stays here at the gun shop every night for security reasons, and it paid off this morning. Somebody at four o’clock this morning smashed through the front of the building with a stolen vehicle, and I yelled the building is occupied and they fled.”
The front door at Fall City Firearms was damaged, but nothing was stolen thanks to being prepared. This is an emerging pattern across the nation.
Jason Chudy of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Seattle Field Division said these types of overnight robberies are occurring almost daily. Recently in Monroe, Washington, thieves hit Armageddon Arms using yet another stolen vehicle.
Chudy said they gained entry and made off with two dozen weapons. These firearms, he noted, generally stay in the community and are used to commit other crimes.
As for Stallman, he is to be commended for recognizing the threat and being prepared. It is highly unlikely, however, that most gun shop owners have the time or resources to have personnel on site 24/7.
There are no suspects in the Fall City Case and a $10,000 reward for information leading to a conviction is being offered.
