Table of Contents
Edmonton music store seeks public help after $100,000 theft
In a troubling turn of events, a music store in Edmonton is reaching out to the community for assistance following a significant theft that has left them reeling. Long & McQuade, located in southeast Edmonton, reported that over $100,000 worth of musical equipment was stolen in a brazen early morning heist.
This incident marks yet another chapter in a series of frustrating break-ins that have plagued the store in recent months.
Details of the heist
Security footage obtained by Global News reveals the meticulous planning of the thieves. The video shows a truck aligning perfectly with the store’s shipping door before the masked individuals smashed their way in.
Within a mere five minutes, the group managed to load a truck with a variety of high-value items, including guitars, DJ equipment, and microphones. Assistant manager Steve Simpson described the scene, noting how the overhead door was bent and pushed off its runners, allowing the thieves to gain entry.
Impact on the community
Simpson expressed the gravity of the situation, stating, “$118,000 worth of gear, which is a significant amount of gear.” Each item stolen ranged from $2,500 to $8,000, making the loss particularly devastating for the store.
This theft is not an isolated incident; the store has faced three break-ins in the past year alone, a stark contrast to their 16 years of operation without any robberies. The repeated targeting has left the staff feeling helpless, despite their efforts to enhance security measures.
Community involvement and support
In light of the recent theft, Long & McQuade is appealing to the public for help in recovering their stolen equipment. Simpson highlighted the loyalty of their customer base, stating, “We do have a lot of faithful, loyal customers that come here, and they do wanna get involved.” The store is urging anyone with information about the theft or the stolen items to come forward.
They have also implemented a system to flag stolen items based on serial numbers, but the challenge remains in tracking down the missing gear.
The community’s response could be crucial in helping the store recover from this setback. As the music scene in Edmonton thrives, the loss of such valuable equipment not only affects the store but also the local musicians who rely on these resources. By spreading the word and keeping an eye out for suspicious activity, the community can play a vital role in supporting Long & McQuade during this challenging time.
