LOS ANGELES, CA – Authorities are searching for two men wanted in connection with a violent armed robbery in Downey, where a victim was held at gunpoint and over $100,000 in jewelry was stolen.
The incident occurred on January 11 around 10:15 a.m. at Gold Dream Fine Jewelry, located in the 7600 block of Firestone Boulevard, according to the Downey Police Department.
Investigators said the two suspects entered the jewelry store under the guise of shopping and asked to see merchandise. As the sales associate attended to them, one of the suspects suddenly tackled and gagged the victim, brandished a handgun, and forced them into a backstock room. Meanwhile, the second suspect ransacked the store.
Photos released by police show the harrowing moment when one suspect held a handgun to the victim’s head while they were on the ground with their hands raised.
The suspects fled the scene with an estimated $100,000 worth of gold, jewelry, and luxury watches.
Police believe the two men may be of Central or South American descent and have warned the public that the suspects should be considered armed and dangerous.
The first suspect is described as a Hispanic male between 25 and 35 years old, approximately 5 feet 6 inches to 6 feet tall, weighing 160 to 180 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. He was wearing a red Champion crewneck sweatshirt, dark jeans, a black cap, and black Nike sneakers.
The second suspect is also described as a Hispanic male between 25 and 35 years old, standing 5 feet 6 inches to 5 feet 10 inches tall, weighing 160 to 180 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. He was dressed in a black Nike hoodie, black athletic pants, a black Nike cap, and white and orange sneakers.
Downey Police Department investigators are asking anyone who recognizes the suspects or has information about the crime to contact Detective Chaidez at 562-904-2391 or by email at [email protected].
For those wishing to remain anonymous, tips can be submitted through the Los Angeles Regional Crime Stoppers Hotline at 800-222-8477 or online at www.lacrimestoppers.org.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue their search for the suspects and appeal for public assistance.
