LAPD is asking for the public’s help in locating a dangerous criminal who robbed at least three people at gunpoint Wednesday night in Koreatown.
Surveillance footage from the Jaragua restaurant on Beverly Boulevard shows the moment two people were attacked at gunpoint as they walked towards their vehicle.
“It was a couple who came to dinner just before closing time, they were leaving,” said the restaurant owner, who did not wish to be named. “They were happy and they were surprised by someone we don’t know, maybe he was hiding and he pulled out his gun.”
Police are looking for the thieves who raided three businesses early Tuesday in the Koreatown and Hollywood neighborhoods. The crimes occurred over a 15-minute period beginning around 4:30 a.m. Tuesday, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.
The man and woman immediately fall to the ground as the thief physically searches the victims and steals their belongings, including, according to LAPD, their cell phones and debit cards.
“It’s really frustrating for us because we’ve been here for over 30 years and we’re known to be a family restaurant,” he said.
“We take pride in knowing that customers can enjoy great food and be safe. My employees are afraid to go out at night, and that’s why I’m here to make sure everyone gets into their car safely.”
Police say that after robbing the two people in the parking lot just before 10 p.m., the individual drove about a mile and a half at 3rd Avenue and 8th Street and robbed a man who was sitting in his court shortly before 11 p.m.
“It’s scary to hear that, things are happening here. I’m walking alone to show how confident I feel, now I’m a little hesitant,” said neighbor Kim Jung.
LAPD released the images of the individual. At the time of the robberies, he wore a black hoodie, black pants, black tennis shoes or tactical boots, and gray or blue gloves. He was also seen carrying a black semi-automatic pistol.
This story first appeared on Telemundo 52’s sister station NBCLA. Click on here to read this story in English.