South Boston's small business Love Child experienced a brazen robbery that took place just before Christmas, the local shop known for its home decor and liquor inventory saw the community rallying in its defense, leading to a record-breaking sales day. A teenage girl sporting a blue surgical mask reportedly lifted three bottles of Tito's Handmade Vodka from the store on Friday night and then fled with an accomplice on a moped. The Boston Police Department were called to the scene around 7:45 p.m., as reported by the Boston Herald.
A resident, Mark Rooney, overheard their plight. He immediately posted a call to action on Facebook to support the Dunleavys and their business. “A young couple, taking a chance, opening and trying to make a small business work,” he wrote. “For those of us who grew up here, if a neighbor was in need, we all responded.” Rooney's Facebook plea, as quoted by the Boston Herald,
Colleen Dunleavy, co-owner with her husband of the Love Child shop, described the robbery as a 'violation'. And with the support that flooded in following Rooney's post, "It’s just been beautiful to witness. I was waterworks all day Saturday seeing people come in,” Dunleavy stated, as Boston 25 News detailed.
The store expressed their gratitude via Instagram. Authorities, continuing to pursue leads in the case, had yet to arrest as of Monday night. More information on the continuing investigation can be found in statements obtained by Boston 25 News.
