Pasadena police are searching for thieves who ransacked a jewelry store Tuesday afternoon and pepper-sprayed the owner.
The smash-and-grab robbery occurred in the 400 block of South Lake Avenue around 1:50 p.m. The suspects also stole a customer’s personal items.
Jewels on Lake owner Sam Bibikiam said the store’s doors remained locked until he pressed the button. He believes the suspect stood up in his place until he opened the door for the client to leave.
“When I opened the door to let customers out, they pepper sprayed me right in front of the door,” he said.
Bibikiam says all the jewelry in his store is custom made.
“I make all my jewelry,” he said. “Every piece I make and put in a display case is a part of me. I have been a jeweler for 48 years. I make them all special.
The robber was wearing a ski mask and gloves, according to the Pasadena Police Department. They left the jewelry store before police arrived.
