Three beloved local businesses in Los Angeles County fell victim to a string of burglaries this week, leaving community members concerned as authorities work to determine if the incidents are connected. The break-ins targeted El Gallo Bakery in East Los Angeles, a Wingstop in Boyle Heights, and La Mano Tortilleria in Pico Rivera, all occurring within miles of each other.
The crime spree began early Wednesday morning when La Mano Tortilleria in Pico Rivera was burglarized around 1:15 a.m. According to ABC7, four suspects wearing ski masks forcibly entered the establishment by breaking through a steel door and shattering glass. The tortilleria, located at 9237 Whittier Boulevard, has been a community staple known for its authentic Mexican food and fresh tortillas.
Less than 24 hours later, El Gallo Bakery on Cesar E. Chavez Avenue in East Los Angeles was hit. Surveillance footage captured two men breaking into the historic bakery around 2 a.m. Thursday, with one suspect appearing to brandish a handgun as they targeted the cash registers. The burglars escaped with an undisclosed amount of cash in a white SUV, as reported by NBC Los Angeles.
Community Impact
El Gallo Bakery, a cornerstone in East Los Angeles since 1949, has built deep ties with the community over its 76-year history. Owner Jesus Huerta, son of founder Magdalena Martinez-Huerta, told reporters that numerous customers expressed dismay upon learning about the burglary. The bakery has maintained strong community connections through generations, as previously noted by Hoodline Los Angeles.
Despite the setback, El Gallo Bakery has shown resilience with support from loyal patrons. In a touching display of community solidarity, the bakery acknowledged this support in a recent Instagram post, stating: "L❤️VE's BACK to our Patrons & Community for your support, this past Thursday Early morning Robbery, so many of your pour Love & Concern."
Approximately an hour after the El Gallo Bakery break-in, a Wingstop restaurant located on Whittier Boulevard in Boyle Heights was targeted. The Los Angeles Police Department has not disclosed what items were taken from the chicken wing establishment, which is situated at 3476 Whittier Boulevard. This location has become a popular dining option in the area since opening, as indicated by ABC7.
Part of a Broader Trend
These incidents reflect a concerning pattern of retail and restaurant burglaries that have plagued Los Angeles County businesses. Commercial burglaries targeting restaurants have seen fluctuations in recent years, with analysts noting that property crime decreased overall by 6.7% in Los Angeles during 2024, including a 7.1% reduction in burglaries, according to Get Safe and Sound.
However, small businesses remain vulnerable to targeted break-ins. Restaurant owners have increasingly implemented security measures in response to similar incidents, with some establishments going cashless to reduce their appeal as targets. In 2023, LAPD data revealed that restaurant burglaries were up significantly compared to pre-pandemic levels, as businesses across the region struggled with recurring smash-and-grab incidents, as reported by NBC Los Angeles.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department is currently investigating whether the three recent burglaries were carried out by the same suspects. The similar timeframe and proximity of the crimes have raised suspicions about a potential connection, though authorities have not confirmed this theory. Deputies conducted area searches after each incident but have not yet apprehended any suspects, as mentioned by ABC7.
Legal Implications
Commercial burglaries in California carry serious penalties, especially when weapons are involved, as appeared to be the case in the El Gallo Bakery incident. Prosecutors could potentially pursue charges including commercial burglary, theft, and weapons violations. If the cases are determined to be connected, the suspects might face additional charges related to operating as part of an organized theft ring.
The Los Angeles Police Department and Sheriff's Department have been working to combat organized retail theft and business burglaries through dedicated task forces. In 2024, law enforcement recovered over $36 million in stolen property and made 427 arrests linked to retail theft rings throughout Los Angeles, highlighting the scale of organized crime affecting area businesses, according to Get Safe and Sound.
Authorities are asking anyone with information about these incidents to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. Community members are encouraged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to help prevent similar crimes from occurring in the future.
