Armed Group Steals Nearly $1 Million in Jewelry From San Ramon Store

San Ramon police say nearly 25 suspects were involved in a brazen daylight armed robbery at Heller Jewelers inside City Center Bishop Ranch. Authorities report that the group, at least three of them armed with guns, stormed the store Monday afternoon and stole nearly $1 million in merchandise.

Video captured by witnesses shows chaos inside the store as suspects used crowbars and pickaxes to smash display cases. At one point, a suspect fired a shot to break a locked glass door, a security measure added after a previous robbery two years ago. The door had automatically locked behind the group, trapping them inside until they forced their way out.

Police credit a 2023 organized retail theft grant and the use of a newly acquired drone for helping track the suspects as they fled toward six waiting getaway cars parked nearby. Officers pursued the vehicles but stopped when the chase posed a danger to the public.

With assistance from nearby law enforcement, San Ramon police arrested seven suspects, all from Oakland, ranging in age from 17 to 31. Investigators believe the group is connected to similar smash-and-grab crimes across the Bay Area. Authorities also recovered two guns, some abandoned jewelry, and several stolen vehicles used in the robbery.

Despite the arrests, police say the thieves still escaped with about $1 million worth of goods. Investigators warn the case is far from over, calling it a well-orchestrated operation that could take months to fully unravel.

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.