FORT WORTH, TX – In a brazen pre-dawn heist on Christmas morning, a group of thieves orchestrated a smash-and-grab at a local smoke shop, leaving behind a trail of destruction and a burning vehicle. The incident unfolded at Modern Smoke Shop on South Hulen Street, where a stolen car was used to ram through the storefront, allowing the culprits to make off with thousands of dollars’ worth of merchandise.
The shop’s owner received a distressing alert from the store’s alarm system just as the crime was occurring. Helplessly, he watched the scene play out live on the security cameras. The footage reveals three hooded figures exiting the vehicle, with one fleeing immediately while the others navigated the wreckage to loot the store.
Within minutes, firefighters arrived on the scene as the stolen car, wedged into the storefront, caught fire. The blaze quickly spread, threatening to consume the entire building. The owner, rushing to his business, captured images of the charred vehicle that had been left behind.
Authorities later confirmed that the vehicle involved in the crime had been reported stolen. Investigators traced it back to its registered owner, who stated unequivocally that it had been taken without permission.
By Christmas afternoon, the smoke shop was boarded up, its entrance secured against further attempts. Scorch marks on the sidewalk stood as a stark reminder of the morning’s events. The damage, both from the fire and the break-in, was extensive enough to force the temporary closure of the shop.
As police continue their investigation, they are appealing to the public for any information that might lead to the apprehension of the suspects. Despite the severity of the crime, no arrests have been made yet.
The incident highlights the vulnerability of businesses during the holiday season, a time when owners hope to focus on festivities rather than security breaches. With the shop closed for repairs, the owner is left to assess the financial and emotional impact of the break-in.
As the community rallies around the affected business, the incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks faced by small enterprises and the importance of vigilance and community support.