Smash-and-Grab Burglary at High-End L.A. Shoe Shop

Introduction to the Incident

Authorities are searching for burglars who hit a high-end sneaker shop hours before its doors opened, according to the Los Angeles Police Department. Officers sent to the 400 block of North Fairfax Avenue around 5 a.m. Friday found that a blue Toyota Camry had rammed into Solestage, a shop known for streetwear, accessories and sneakers.

Details of the Burglary

LAPD Officer Drake Madison said the vehicle had been reported stolen. It is unclear what items were taken from the store. Solestage did not immediately respond to a request for comment Friday. Authorities say the suspects ran away, but had no other information about them as of Friday afternoon.

Request for Public Assistance

Anyone with information is asked to contact the LAPD’s Wilshire Division at (213) 473-0476. During non-business hours, or on weekends, calls should be directed to (877) 527-3247. Tips can also be made anonymously via lacrimestoppers.org or (800) 222-8477.

About the Targeted Store

Solestage sells brands such as Supreme and Louis Vuitton — with a wallet collaboration costing about $3,500 — and claims to house the “rarest” collection of clothing and foot apparel. The store was among those targeted by thieves in June 2020 after weeks of civil unrest across L.A. While such smash-and-grab crimes drew widespread attention online, a Times analysis found they made up only a fraction of the city’s burglaries in 2020.

Historical Context of Similar Crimes

The incident is not isolated, as there have been previous instances of smash-and-grab burglaries in the area, particularly during periods of civil unrest. However, the frequency and impact of these crimes vary, and law enforcement continues to work on preventing and solving them.

Conclusion

The smash-and-grab burglary at Solestage highlights the ongoing issue of theft and vandalism in high-end retail stores. The use of a stolen vehicle to ram into the store and the potential theft of high-value items underscore the brazen nature of these crimes. As authorities investigate and seek public assistance, the community remains vigilant, hoping for the apprehension of the suspects and the recovery of stolen goods.

FAQs

1. What happened at Solestage?
   • A blue Toyota Camry, which had been reported stolen, rammed into the store early Friday morning.
2. What is Solestage known for?
   • Solestage is known for selling high-end streetwear, accessories, and sneakers, including brands like Supreme and Louis Vuitton.
3. How can one provide information about the incident?
   • Individuals can contact the LAPD’s Wilshire Division or provide anonymous tips through specified phone numbers and websites.
4. Is this the first time Solestage has been targeted?
   • No, the store was among those targeted by thieves in June 2020 following civil unrest in L.A.
5. What is the current status of the investigation?
   • As of the last update, authorities were seeking public assistance and had no detailed information about the suspects.