A Pasadena couple are out $9,000 after a man broke their car window and took cash from the glove compartment.
The couple was inside the La Montana Meat Market for a few minutes. When they came back out, they saw a man at their car.
The man had broken the window and taken an envelope filled with cash from the glove compartment. They’d just been at a bank nearby, withdrawing money to buy their son a car.
According to reports, police will now be trying to determine if this was a case of jugging.
Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is being reviewed, but police say no arrests have been made yet. The vehicle, valued at approximately $9,000, had no visible damage prior to the theft and contained several personal belongings, including the couple’s cell phone chargers and a child’s car seat.
“We were just doing our regular Sunday grocery run,” said Maria Cortez, one of the victims. “We’ve shopped at La Montana for years and never expected something like this to happen in broad daylight.”
The theft has raised concerns among local residents, many of whom frequent the market and say they’ve noticed increased reports of car-related crimes in the area.
“This isn’t the first time something like this has happened,” said Robert Nguyen, a nearby shop owner. “We’ve seen break-ins, but an outright car theft in the middle of the day? That’s bold.”
Police are urging anyone with information to come forward and are advising drivers to take extra precautions — such as locking doors, removing valuables, and parking in well-lit, high-traffic areas — especially as auto theft rates continue to climb across Southern California.
Authorities are also working to determine whether the theft is connected to any known local theft rings. Meanwhile, the couple is left without transportation and hoping for a swift resolution.
“We just want our car back,” Cortez said. “And for whoever did this to be held accountable.”
Anyone with tips is asked to contact the Pasadena Police Department’s non-emergency line at (626) 744-4241. Anonymous information can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers.
