Although business appeared to be back to normal at the Goodwill Boutique in Redlands on Friday, the lingering impact of a brazen burglary remained.
It happened early Sunday morning when police say someone stole a GMC Sierra pickup and rammed it through the storefront of the Goodwill Boutique on Palms Avenue, Redlands police said.
“It’s outrageous,” said David Hamilton, who lives nearby. “That’s the lowest of the low.”
It is still unclear exactly what and how much was taken, but officers say a safe was among the stolen items last weekend.
The incident caused extensive damage, which is still being repaired as a plywood sheet covers the store’s former front window. Store management says they had to close for several days as the initial repairs began.
After the theft, the truck was abandoned and still driving about a block away, police said. They suspect the suspects used a second vehicle to flee.
Along with the safe, residents say the burglary stole their sense of security.
“It’s quite overwhelming and a bit of a safety concern for us – we’re two doors down,” one woman said. “I mean, how much money are you actually going to get from a Goodwill? So why would you do that? I hope they get caught.’
Although a camera is pointed at the front door of the store, RPD detectives say they have not yet been able to obtain security video. Anyone with information is urged to contact them at (909) 798-7681.
