A group of masked suspects rammed a pickup through the entrance of a Washington jewelry store in the middle of the day, but their alleged smash-and-grab attempt quickly fell apart after the owner retrieved a gun and fired, authorities and local media reported.
The attempted robbery happened just after 12:25 p.m. Tuesday at Medina Jewelers in Lynnwood.
Security footage captured three vehicles making their way around the parking lot before a white Toyota Tacoma suddenly crashed through the storefront. The impact blew out the glass and sent workers rushing away from the entrance.
Video from the jewelry store shows three vehicles circling the lot before a white Toyota Tacoma smashes through the front of the business, breaking the glass and causing employees to flee. (Lynwood Police Department)
Multiple masked individuals entered through the wreckage, and at least one appeared to be holding an axe.
According to FOX13 Seattle, the store owner responded by taking out a firearm and shooting toward the suspects, who ran from the store without taking anything.
Masked suspects can be seen charging into the store through the shattered opening, with one appearing to carry an axe. (Lynwood Police Department)
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Authorities said no one at the scene reported being injured. Investigators had not determined whether any of the suspects may have been hit by the gunfire.
“This was in broad daylight and is a fairly unusual event for us,” Lynnwood Police Cmdr. Joe Dickenson told the outlet.
A man believed to be the jewelry store owner appears to aim a gun at the suspects as they escape. (Lynwood Police Department)
Police were also investigating whether any member of the group was armed.
“There were witnesses outside and pedestrians moving through the area. When a vehicle suddenly crashes into a building and gunshots follow, that understandably creates a serious alarm,” Dickenson said.
Investigators said the suspects fled in a black BMW SUV and a silver Toyota or Infiniti sedan. During the getaway, the BMW collided with a parked car and may have sustained damage to its front passenger side.
Anyone who can identify the people or vehicles shown in the surveillance video is asked to contact Lynnwood police at crimetips@lynnwoodwa.gov. Tips should include case number 2026-37986.
