On Wednesday morning, San Jose Camera & Video became the latest victim of the rising smash-and-grab robberies in the Bay Area. According to a report by NBC Bay Area, the culprits rammed a vehicle through the store's entrance and stole expensive camera equipment before fleeing in a stolen car. The store's owner, Chris Cismondi, expressed the difficulty of maintaining a family-owned business with such losses, "It's getting tough to stay in business and operate when this stuff happens."
In an act seeking solidarity and assistance, San Jose Camera & Video reached out to the community via a social media post on Instagram. The team emphasized their intent to continue service to the community despite the recent robbery, stating: "We are safe and uninjured, and we would happily love to continue serving the South Bay for another 100 years for enthusiasts, professionals, students and creatives alike".
The camera store, a mainstay of the South Bay community for nearly a century, has faced multiple burglaries. The GoFundMe campaign details the extent of the damage, including a shattered front entrance and stolen merchandise that insurance may not wholly cover. To keep their legacy alive, the owners and their families appeal for donations to aid in repair and operational expenses and support the livelihood of their 11 employees.
