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Pleasanton police investigate smash-and-grab spree targeting 18 businesses

At least 18 Pleasanton businesses were burglarized in a single early morning event, with suspects smashing windows and fleeing in a vehicle that evaded police pursuit.

Reese Hardy

September 11, 20262 min read

Commercial Justice - illustration, Jake Team LLC

Pleasanton police are investigating a coordinated series of burglaries that struck at least 18 commercial properties early Thursday morning. The spree primarily targeted restaurants and shops across multiple shopping centers in the city.

According to law enforcement, four suspects were involved in the incidents. The group reportedly smashed windows to gain entry, took cash and other items, and fled the scene quickly. The damage affected businesses at Mission Plaza and Pacific Pearl.

At Mission Plaza, five establishments had broken windows. One business owner, Carol Rhen of TP Tea, confirmed that thieves entered her shop and stole money. She expressed hope that law enforcement would apprehend the individuals responsible.

Pacific Pearl saw at least six additional businesses with shattered glass. Surveillance footage from a sushi restaurant in the center shows a suspect removing an entire cash register. Another restaurant owner stated that burglars took at least $500 from her business and noted that neighboring owners feel frightened about the safety of their operations.

The number of crimes reported on Thursday was notable compared to previous months. Police data indicated that only 18 commercial burglaries had occurred in Pleasanton prior to that morning. The latest incidents effectively doubled that annual total in a single event.

Officers identified a vehicle they believed was used by the suspects and attempted to stop it. The driver fled, leading to a pursuit eastbound on Stanley Boulevard before authorities called off the chase. The suspects remain at large.

Similar crimes have recently occurred in nearby areas. In Danville, workers at Dulce Beauté believe a dozen businesses were targeted, though one owner noted that thieves only took snacks. In Dublin, surveillance video from Labor Day showed masked individuals breaking into a restaurant and attempting to destroy a camera.

Authorities have not confirmed whether the Pleasanton incidents are linked to the crimes in Danville or Dublin.

Source: kioncentralcoast.com.

Sources

kioncentralcoast.com

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Reese Hardy

Reese Hardy writes about community life, schools, public safety, and local events in Pleasanton.

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