High-Speed Getaway Ends in Crash Mayhem

Armed California jewelry store owner helplessly watched as a gang of masked thieves stole his own gun during a million-dollar smash-and-grab heist that left six innocent bystanders injured when the criminals’ getaway plans spectacularly backfired.

Story Snapshot

Eight to ten masked suspects rammed an SUV through Classic Jewelers in Anaheim Hills, stealing up to $1 million in jewelry and the owner’s firearm
Police pursuits ended with both getaway vehicles crashing, injuring six innocent drivers and scattering stolen goods across crash scenes
At least five to seven suspects arrested on scene, though several remain at large as investigations continue
Store owner described the terrifying moment as fearing for his life despite being armed for protection
Police suspect experienced theft ring behind the brazen Friday afternoon attack, part of California’s surging retail crime wave

Brazen Daylight Attack Stuns Affluent Community

Surveillance footage captured the shocking moment masked suspects crashed an SUV through the front entrance of Classic Jewelers in Anaheim Hills on Friday afternoon, January 23. Between eight and ten robbers poured into the store wielding hammers and crowbars, systematically smashing display cases containing custom jewelry valued between $750,000 and $1 million. Store owner Ramcy Tabelo confronted the gang verbally, announcing he had a gun, but the thieves brazenly grabbed his firearm from the counter before fleeing. The entire ransacking occurred within minutes, demonstrating tactical precision that police believe indicates this was not the crew’s first crime.

High-Speed Pursuits End in Multiple Crashes

Anaheim police spotted the suspects’ two getaway vehicles shortly after the robbery, initiating pursuits that quickly turned chaotic. The first getaway car caused a multi-vehicle collision at Orangethorpe Avenue and Lemon Street in Fullerton, with stolen jewelry trays scattered among the wreckage. Approximately six innocent drivers sustained minor to moderate injuries in the crashes. The second vehicle crashed roughly five minutes later just miles away, prompting SWAT team deployment. Four suspects were apprehended at the first crash site and three at the second, though several gang members fled on foot and remain at large.

California’s Retail Crime Epidemic Reaches New Extreme

This heist exemplifies the organized retail theft crisis plaguing California since 2020, with smash-and-grab robberies targeting jewelry stores becoming disturbingly routine. Anaheim Police Sergeant Eric Anderson noted the suspects’ professional execution, stating this was clearly not their first time and crediting outstanding police work for the rapid response. The theft of the owner’s gun represents a particularly alarming escalation, undermining Second Amendment protections and self-defense rights. Despite the owner legally carrying his firearm for protection amid rising crime, he was powerless against the overwhelming force of ten masked criminals. This incident fuels ongoing debates about California’s soft-on-crime policies that embolden organized theft rings while law-abiding business owners struggle to protect their livelihoods and lives.

Investigation Continues as Community Seeks Answers

Classic Jewelers remains closed for repairs while authorities work to identify remaining fugitives and determine connections to previous heists across Orange County. Police recovered substantial amounts of stolen jewelry from both crash sites, though exact totals remain under investigation. Tabelo described the robbery as the scariest moment of his life, expressing gratitude that no customers were present during the attack. The incident has sparked renewed calls among small business owners for stronger security measures, including reinforced barriers and armed guards, as insurance costs are expected to rise across the retail jewelry sector. Authorities are seeking public tips to locate the remaining suspects.

Video shows masked robbers crash car through jewelry store entrance, steal owner's gun in brazen heist https://t.co/5d2p33v4dL

— Fox News (@FoxNews) January 26, 2026

The brazen nature of this crime, combined with the suspects’ willingness to endanger innocent lives during their escape, underscores the urgent need for tougher enforcement against organized retail theft. As Anaheim Hills residents process the shocking violence in their affluent community, this incident serves as yet another example of how California’s lenient criminal justice policies have created an environment where hardened criminals operate with impunity, putting law-abiding citizens and business owners at risk.