Botched break-in at Seattle pharmacy leaves cars damaged

SEATTLE – According to witnesses, two suspects attempted unsuccessfully to break into Bartell Drugs in Seattle's Green Lake neighborhood on Thursday, causing significant damage and damaging 14 cars.

The cars were parked in the 400 block of Northeast 71st Street.

“It was quite shocking to see the damage,” said neighbor Nachiked Kale. “You don't expect something like that.”

Seattle Police Department (SPD) investigators said the incident occurred around 5:30 a.m.

Several people called 911 and told emergency dispatchers that two cars were attempting to use a chain to force open the gate of a drug store.

When officers arrived on the scene, they found that part of the store's exterior wall had been demolished in an attempt to steal a safe. The suspects were unsuccessful.

In photos provided to FOX 13, the cream-colored metal safe was seen on the sidewalk. It was eventually removed.

Due to the damage to the shop front, customers were unable to make purchases on Thursday. Only the pharmacy was open.

“People came in, including me,” said Betsy Fett. “I would have bought something else, but I couldn't because it was closed. It's quite inconvenient and I'm sure it spoiled the afternoon for everyone. We all talked about it in the line at the pharmacy.”

Fett said she was able to pick up her medication but was confused about the property damage.

“Why did you try that?” she asked. “You caused a lot of damage.”

Additional photos provided to FOX 13 showed damage to several cars in the area. A Ford F-150 parked nearby had its window shattered.

“This whole thing is crazy,” said neighbor Ariel Mattar. “This morning we heard a loud bang and screaming. We had no idea it was a burglary attempt. We're just glad no one was hurt.”

Rite Aid, which acquired Bartell Drugs in the fall of 2020, could not comment directly on the incident, but in a statement, a Rite Aid spokesperson said:

“We are unable to comment at this time as the investigation is ongoing. We are grateful that no one was injured in the attempted robbery and we are cooperating with local authorities in their investigation. We respectfully refer further investigations to law enforcement. The safety of our employees and customers is our top priority and we are committed to ensuring that everyone feels safe in our stores.”

Police say the suspects and vehicles are still missing. Anyone with information is asked to call Seattle police.

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