California Jewelry Store Owner, 88, Assaulted in Brutal Smash-and-Grab Robbery in San Jose
The Disturbing Incident at Kim Hung Jewelry Store
At approximately 2:30 p.m. on Friday, a gang of masked thieves launched a violent attack on the family-run Kim Hung jewelry store located in San Jose. Surveillance footage reveals an SUV forcefully backing into and breaking through the store’s front window, signaling the start of the chaotic robbery.
The suspects, dressed predominantly in black and armed with axes and hammers, aggressively smashed the display cases to steal gold and jewelry. The intensity of the attack escalated when the elderly store owner, standing at the back of the store, was pushed to the ground by one of the assailants.
“This attack was not just on a store — it was on the dignity of our elders, the safety of our neighborhoods, and the soul of our community,” said Milpitas Mayor Carmen Montano, emphasizing the gravity of the crime.
- The gang demanded everyone to “get the f–k down” during the robbery.
- One suspect was armed with a gun, increasing the threat level.
- The robbers fled in multiple vehicles after a car horn outside alarmed them.
- The incident caused significant property damage estimated between $50,000 and $100,000.
Impact on the Elderly Owner and the Community
The victim’s condition deteriorated after the assault, suffering a stroke and cuts from broken glass when shoved to the ground. According to Chris Moore, a friend of the store owner, the elderly man was hospitalized overnight, stabilized by Sunday, and subsequently released.
“Watching this senior get assaulted made my blood boil,” San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan remarked. “These people need to face the harshest possible consequences for their actions.”
The violent nature of the crime and the victim’s age has stirred community leaders, activists, and family members who gathered to demand enhanced security measures for small businesses.
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Ongoing Investigation and Community Response
The San Jose Police Department has launched an active investigation into the robbery. Authorities confirmed that no arrests have been made yet, and the suspects remain unidentified and at large.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with civic leaders and community members urging for decisive action to prevent similar attacks in the future. The San Jose mayor has pledged close monitoring of the investigation alongside the police chief.
- Police are reviewing surveillance footage and gathering evidence.
- Community meetings and press conferences are underway to discuss protective measures.
- Calls for harsher penalties for violent crimes targeting small businesses are intensifying.
Further details about the robbery and the ongoing investigation can be found in the original report by New York Post.
Protecting Our Community’s Small Businesses
This harrowing event underscores the vulnerability of small, family-owned businesses to violent crime. Civic leaders have highlighted the need for increased security investment and community vigilance to safeguard these vital local establishments and their owners.
Key Takeaways:
- Violent crimes against small businesses lead to physical harm and emotional trauma.
- The community demands policy reform to protect vulnerable business owners.
- Collaboration between law enforcement and local leaders is essential for prevention.
What do you think about this shocking robbery in San Jose? Have you or someone you know experienced a similar crime? Share your thoughts and support for local businesses in the comments below!