Richmond, VA – A break-in at a Henrico County pawn shop early Saturday morning has left investigators searching for suspects and concerned for public safety after firearms were stolen during the incident.
The break-in occurred at Knight and Pawn, located on West Broad Street, at approximately 5:07 a.m. on December 14. Henrico County Police responded to a commercial alarm at the business and arrived to find a Hyundai Sonata in front of the store. The car, which was later determined to be stolen, had been used to smash through the doors of the pawn shop, breaking the glass and allowing the suspects access to the interior.
Surveillance footage obtained from inside the store shows at least four individuals entering the building and quickly ransacking the shelves. They stole several firearms before fleeing the scene and leaving in a separate vehicle. The stolen car was abandoned at the scene, and police believe the suspects switched vehicles to avoid detection.
“We are actively working with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) to track down these individuals and recover the stolen firearms,” said Henrico County Police spokesman, Officer W. Gage.
The business, already feeling the impact of the theft, is working to assess the damage. Morgan Painter, the manager of Knight and Pawn, spoke to 8News, expressing his frustration and concern. “It’s especially difficult around the holidays when our business is already under pressure,” he said. “This kind of disruption not only impacts us but also the hard-working employees who rely on the store.”
Painter added that he is hopeful for a swift resolution and for justice to be served.
The stolen firearms raise additional concerns due to their potential to end up on the streets. Authorities are urging the public to come forward with any information about the identities of the suspects or the stolen weapons. Those with information are encouraged to contact Detective W. Gage with the Henrico County Police Division at 804-816-8582.
As of now, the investigation is ongoing, and detectives are pursuing leads to locate and apprehend the individuals responsible for the break-in.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks pawn shops face, especially when valuable and dangerous items like firearms are involved. Henrico County authorities continue to ask for the community’s help in solving the case and recovering the stolen property.
