Burglars Strike Twice, Steal Thousands of Dollars in Collectibles from Upstate CollectibleZ
Saturday Afternoon Heist
Just hours after closing time, Upstate CollectibleZ, a collectibles store in Amsterdam, New York, was broken into – not once, but twice. Security cameras captured the suspects leaving with a shopping cart full of stolen toys.
The First Break-In
According to Matthew Zampella, the store owner, the burglars first broke in around 4 p.m. through a fire exit door that they chiseled open with an unknown object. More than $15,000 worth of collectibles were taken, including rare toys and memorabilia.
The Second Break-In
The burglars returned around 10 p.m., taking advantage of the store’s security being down at the time. The adjacent business did not have footage of the incident. Riverfront Center cameras captured evidence of the second break-in.
Investigation Ongoing
The burglary is an active investigation, and the Amsterdam Police Department is seeking information from the public. Three suspects are being sought, and anyone with information is asked to contact the department at 518-842-1100 or infopd@amsterdampd.com.
Store Owners’ Response
Despite the setback, Matthew and Lynnae Zampella are committed to restocking their shelves and preparing for the holiday season. They will also continue their annual tradition of donating to the local Toys For Tots program.
Conclusion
The burglary of Upstate CollectibleZ is a reminder of the importance of security measures and community involvement in combating crime. The store owners’ commitment to their customers and the community is commendable, and it is hoped that the perpetrators will be brought to justice soon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What time did the first break-in occur?
A: The first break-in occurred around 4 p.m. on Saturday afternoon.
Q: What was stolen during the break-in?
A: More than $15,000 worth of collectibles, including rare toys and memorabilia, were stolen.
Q: How many times did the burglars break into the store?
A: The burglars broke into the store twice, first at 4 p.m. and again at 10 p.m.
Q: Are the police investigating the incident?
A: Yes, the Amsterdam Police Department is actively investigating the burglary and is seeking information from the public.
Q: Will the store owners continue to donate to the local Toys For Tots program?
A: Yes, the store owners have committed to continuing their annual tradition of donating to the local Toys For Tots program.
