Three beloved local businesses in Los Angeles County fell victim to a string of burglaries this week, leaving community members concerned as authorities work to determine if the incidents are connected. The break-ins targeted El Gallo Bakery in East Los Angeles, a Wingstop in Boyle Heights, and La Mano Tortilleria in Pico Rivera, all occurring within miles of each other.
The crime spree began early Wednesday morning when La Mano Tortilleria in Pico Rivera was burglarized around 1:15 a.m. According to ABC7, four suspects wearing ski masks forcibly entered the establishment by breaking through a steel door and shattering glass. The tortilleria, located at 9237 Whittier Boulevard, has been a community staple known for its authentic Mexican food and fresh tortillas.
Less than 24 hours later, El Gallo Bakery on Cesar E. Chavez Avenue in East Los Angeles was hit. Surveillance footage captured two men breaking into the historic bakery around 2 a.m. Thursday, with one suspect appearing to brandish a handgun as they targeted the cash registers. The burglars escaped with an undisclosed amount of cash in a white SUV, as reported by NBC Los Angeles.
Community Impact
El Gallo Bakery, a cornerstone in East Los Angeles since 1949, has built deep ties with the community over its 76-year history. Owner Jesus Huerta, son of founder Magdalena Martinez-Huerta, told reporters that numerous customers expressed dismay upon learning about the burglary. The bakery has maintained strong community connections through generations, as previously noted by Hoodline Los Angeles…