Investigation Underway Following Attempted Gun Store Burglary in Simi Valley

SIMI VALLEY, California — Police are investigating a series of commercial burglaries targeting local firearms dealers, including an attempted break-in at a gun shop in Simi Valley. The incident appears to be connected to a successful heist in nearby Camarillo that occurred earlier in the day.

According to the Simi Valley Police Department, officers responded to an alarm at a local gun store in the early morning hours of July 18, 2024. Upon arrival, officers discovered evidence of forced entry attempts, though the suspects were ultimately unsuccessful in breaching the store's security doors and no merchandise was stolen.

This attempt followed a successful burglary at a gun store in Camarillo, where multiple firearms were reported stolen. Authorities from both jurisdictions, along with federal agencies, are reviewing surveillance footage and processing forensic evidence to identify the suspects, who are believed to be part of an organized crew targeting firearms retailers in Ventura County.

Anyone with information regarding either incident or suspicious activity in the vicinity of firearms dealers is strongly encouraged to contact the Simi Valley Police Department's detective bureau.