Christmas Eve Grinches: Thieves crash stolen car into Bellingham business

BELLINGHAM, Washington — A local business in Bellingham suffered significant structural damage on Christmas Eve after thieves crashed a stolen vehicle into the storefront in a brazen "smash-and-grab" style burglary.

The incident took place on the morning of December 24, 2024. Investigators report that the perpetrators utilized a stolen passenger vehicle as a battering ram to breach the business's main entrance, causing extensive damage to the facade, glass windows, and interior structure. After successfully breaching the security barrier, the suspects quickly targeted merchandise inside the store before fleeing the scene prior to the arrival of law enforcement officers.

Responding officers located the abandoned vehicle at the scene, which was subsequently confirmed to have been reported stolen prior to the break-in. Forensic teams have processed the vehicle and the retail location for fingerprints and DNA evidence. Bellingham Police are looking for multiple suspects associated with this holiday-themed heist, which local business operators have described as a devastating blow during what should be a festive season.

The authorities are urging shop owners to review their physical security measures, particularly reinforce storefront bollards, to mitigate the risk of ram-raid style attacks. Anyone with information regarding the identity of the suspects or who witnessed a secondary getaway vehicle fleeing the area is requested to contact the Bellingham Police Department immediately.