A fatal robbery at Kim Tin Jewelry in Sacramento’s Little Vietnam Plaza has left the community shaken.
On Friday morning, six masked suspects stormed the store, smashed display cases, and fired shots as they fled, leaving one employee fatally injured.
The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating the incident, which unfolded in less than a minute and involved a dramatic exchange of gunfire.
Details of the Incident
Authorities confirmed that the robbery occurred around 11:45 a.m. at the Stockton Boulevard location. Witnesses described the suspects using crowbars to break into the store’s cases before grabbing merchandise and attempting to flee. During their escape, gunfire erupted inside the store.
Sgt. Amar Gandhi of the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office stated that the store owner fired at least one shot at the suspects. While it’s presumed the suspects returned fire, it remains unclear if their shots struck anyone or if the suspects were armed with firearms. Tragically, a female employee, later identified as the wife of the store owner, was shot and transported to Kaiser Permanente South Sacramento Medical Center, where she succumbed to her injuries.
The suspects fled in two sedans, and their identities remain unknown. Authorities have urged anyone with photos, videos, or information about the robbery to come forward, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in solving the case.
Impact on the Community
The robbery has shaken the Little Vietnam Plaza community, which comprises many family-owned businesses. Robin Ha, a nearby restaurant owner, described the victim as a kind and friendly individual. “She was a sweet lady,” Ha said.
Residents have voiced concerns about safety, noting that while burglaries have happened before, an event of this nature is unusual. Some gathered at the scene in the hours after the shooting to seek information and mourn.
Implications for Jewelers
This incident highlights the risks jewelry stores face as frequent targets of high-value thefts. The suspects’ use of crowbars to smash display cases reflects a common tactic in organized retail crime, prompting considerations about improving security measures.
For jewelers, this incident reinforces the need for effective security measures, including robust surveillance systems, emergency preparedness, and collaboration with law enforcement. It also underscores the importance of prioritizing employee safety in areas experiencing increased retail crime.
Call for Action
The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office has made an urgent appeal to the public for any information that could aid in capturing the suspects. Tipsters can contact the office directly or remain anonymous by reaching out to Sacramento Valley Crime Stoppers, with potential rewards available for information leading to an arrest.
