Would-Be Burglars Crash Stolen Van Into Cerritos Gun Store, Suspects Sought

Would-be-burglars slammed a stolen Chevrolet van into a Cerritos gun store before dawn today in what sheriff's investigators called an unsuccessful attempt to steal firearms from the shop.

Sheriff's deputies were called to the at 15979 Piuma Ave. at 4:40 a.m., and found a blue and white 1984 van crashed into the front doors of the shop. The impact, however, did not cause enough damage to the shop's steel-gated front entrance to allow the suspects inside the store, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department.

“The vehicle actually never breached the façade,” Lt. Richard Harpham of the sheriff’s Cerritos Station. “The front door glass just broke, but this store has pretty good security along the perimeter.”

The van, which was reported stolen from Bellflower on Saturday evening, was used as a battering ram in an attempt to burglarize the shop of firearms and ammunition.

“The fact that they attempted to do this is concerning," the lieutenant added. "Had this been successful and the guns end up in the hands of criminals, they would present an inherent danger to the public."

Suspect Descriptions

Detectives handling the investigation and are currently looking for two or three males suspects. They also believe that a gray sedan and champagne colored Ford Excursion may have been used as getaway vehicles.

Anyone with information was asked to call detectives at the Cerritos Station at (562) 860-0044. Callers who wish to remain anonymous can call (800) 222-TIPS (8477), or text ``TIPLA'' plus the tip information to CRIMES (274637), or visit www.lacrimestoppers.org.