Gun-wielding thieves targeted a popular Oakland donut shop in a frightening armed takeover robbery last week, highlighting the increasing crime rates in the area and leaving many small business owners devastated (Henry Lee KTVU). Colonial Donuts, an iconic bakery that has served the Oakland community for 40 years, found itself at the center of the tense drama, as three masked robbers held employees at gunpoint while they cleared out the cash register and made a fast getaway.
As the KRON4 News reported, the video of the terrifying event reveals the criminals entering the 3318 Lakeshore Avenue location of Colonial Donuts at around 12:50 a.m. on June 22nd. One of them can be seen pointing a gun at a cashier, while the others eventually proceed to empty the register. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported, but the bakery's owners and employees are undoubtedly shaken by the aggressive actions of the robbers.
3 escape after armed takeover robbery at @colonialdonuts on Lakeshore in middle of the night. @oaklandpoliceca on the case. “One word that best describe my feelings right now would be defeat,” woman whose family owns shop tells me. “I hope we can rise from this and stay strong” pic.twitter.com/CeP9JLapxs
— Henry K. Lee (@henrykleeKTVU) June 25, 2023
A family member who helps run the shop expressed her disheartenment: "One word that best describe[s] my feelings right now would be defeat. I hope we can rise from this and stay strong." The woman also revealed her concerns about the deteriorating situation in Oakland: "It's really tough owning a small business in Oakland right now. This is the worst my parents have seen things. It's just heartbreaking to see the state of where Oakland is & we are really asking city leaders & Mayor Sheng Thao for help."
Colonial Donuts released a statement voicing their disappointment and sadness about the crime — and how this latest incident underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures and stronger law enforcement efforts. The bakery has two other locations, both in Oakland, at 1000 Broadway and 6126 La Salle Ave.
As the Oakland business community experiences increasing rates of crime and violence, the pressure is on city officials to address the issue and provide the proper support to its constituents. The Oakland Police Department is currently investigating the Colonial Donuts robbery, but at this time, no suspects have been identified, and descriptions remain vague.
