Burglary and Arrest at Santa Maria Car Dealership

On the night of October 1, 2023, an alarm call led to the arrest of a suspect following a burglary at a car dealership located at 2200 S. Broadway in Santa Maria, California. The burglars gained entry by breaking a window and stealing a safe containing an estimated $10,000 in cash and checks. The suspect was apprehended after a brief chase and was found to be injured during the escape attempt.

The Santa Maria Police Department responded to the alarm and arrived at the scene to find the safe missing. The suspect was later identified as 29-year-old Jose Luis Martinez. Martinez was taken into custody and transported to the Santa Barbara County Jail, where he was booked on charges of burglary and possession of stolen property. Police are appealing to the public for any additional information that could assist in the investigation.