Store Owner Targeted in Intercity Follow-Home Robbery to Concord; $7,000 in Cigarettes Stolen

CONCORD, CA — Concord police are investigating a sophisticated "follow-home" style commercial robbery in which a local store owner was trailed across the East Bay for several miles before being targeted for his high-value cargo.

Trailed from San Leandro

The ordeal began on January 26, 2026, when the store owner loaded a bulk supply of tobacco products into his vehicle at a wholesale distributor in San Leandro. Unbeknownst to the owner, suspects in a trailing vehicle began tracking his movements, following him along the interstate corridor all the way to Concord.

The Confrontation in Concord

As the business owner arrived at his destination in Concord and prepared to unload, the suspects struck. According to police reports, multiple individuals confronted the victim, blocking his vehicle and demanding the keys or direct access to the cargo. The thieves swiftly transferred cases of cigarettes, valued at approximately $7,000, into their getaway vehicle before speeding away from the scene.

Fortunately, no serious physical injuries were reported during the encounter, though the victim was left severely shaken by the boldness of the heist. Investigators believe the suspects targeted the store owner specifically, knowing he would be transporting high-value, easily resold retail goods.

Police Issue Warning to Local Merchants

Concord police, collaborating with the San Leandro Police Department, are analyzing highway camera footage and license plate readers to identify the suspects' vehicle. Authorities have issued a warning to local business owners and merchants who regularly transport cash or inventory:

• Always maintain situational awareness when leaving wholesale depots or banks.
• Look for vehicles that make the same turns or follow for extended distances on the freeway.
• If you suspect you are being followed, do not drive home or to your shop; instead, drive directly to the nearest police station or call 911.

Anyone with information regarding this robbery is encouraged to contact the Concord Police Department's Investigations Division.