🇺🇸 San Bernardino · US · 2 Dec 2024
Local Arcade Ransacked by Burglars Over Holiday in San Bernardino
A popular arcade in San Bernardino was left in ruins after burglars ransacked the establishment over the holiday weekend, stealing cash and causing thousands of dollars in damages to amusement machines and property.
The owner of the arcade returned to the business after the holiday to discover a scene of devastation. Intruders had forced their way through a rear entrance and systematically targeted cash boxes inside the arcade cabinets. Multiple classic and modern gaming machines were smashed open, destroying delicate electronics and coin mechanisms that will be costly and difficult to replace.
Expressing deep frustration, the owner detailed the impact of the break-in, noting that the business represents years of hard work and community building. Beyond the stolen cash, the destruction of the specialized arcade machines threatens the long-term viability of the business, as many of the parts are rare and require specialized technicians to repair.
San Bernardino Police Department investigators responded to the scene to document the damage and collect evidence. Security footage from the premises is being reviewed to identify the perpetrators, who appeared to have arrived prepared with tools to pry open the heavy metal security casings on the machines.
The burglary has sparked renewed conversations among local merchants regarding security and policing over holiday periods when commercial areas are less active. Business associations are urging owners to reinforce entry points and empty cash registers before long closures to deter opportunistic thieves.
Sources : nbcla
