A brazen suspect has been caught on camera smashing the window of a restaurant in British Columbia in order to steal live crabs, according to the owner.
The incident occurred at the Fisherman’s Market in New Westminster on Monday night. Surveillance footage shows a person wearing a hoodie and a mask using a hammer to break the window and then reaching in to grab several live crabs from a tank.
The owner of the restaurant, John Nguyen, says the suspect made off with about $200 worth of crabs. He believes the suspect may have been targeting the crabs specifically, as they are a popular item on the menu.
Nguyen also expressed concern for the safety of his staff and customers, as the suspect could have easily entered the restaurant through the broken window.
The New Westminster Police Department is currently investigating the incident and is asking anyone with information to come forward.
This is not the first time the Fisherman’s Market has been targeted by thieves. In 2019, a suspect stole a cash register from the restaurant.
Nguyen is now considering installing metal bars over the windows to prevent future break-ins.
The suspect in this latest incident is described as a Caucasian male, approximately 5’10” with a medium build. He was wearing a black hoodie, black pants, and a black mask at the time of the break-in.
The Fisherman’s Market is offering a $500 reward for any information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the suspect.
In the meantime, Nguyen is urging other business owners to be vigilant and take precautions to protect their property.
The New Westminster Police Department is reminding the public to report any suspicious activity and to call 911 in case of an emergency.
