In the early hours of Thursday, a high-end urban clothing store in Kendall, Florida, became the target of a bold and meticulously executed heist, leaving its owners devastated and the local community on edge. The target: Kicks Circuit, renowned for its exclusive urban fashion and collectible footwear.
The Swift Heist
Around 4:00 a.m., three hooded individuals quickly exited a vehicle and made their way to the store's facade located on Southwest 104th Street, at the heart of Kendall. Armed with hammers, they smashed the front door and a window, gaining entry within seconds. Once inside, they began filling black plastic containers with sneakers and luxury brand clothing such as Supreme, Bape, Chrome Hearts, and Gallery Dept..
"They knew exactly what to take," remarked Sebastián Quintana, co-owner of the store, speaking to Telemundo 51. "It was heartbreaking. The alarm woke me, I saw them on the cameras, and knew there was no way to stop them in time," he added.
High-Value Collection Looted
In less than two minutes, the thieves cleared entire shelves, even taking incomplete display sneakers, indicating prior knowledge of the inventory and its market value. Losses are estimated to exceed $12,000. "We're talking about items with commercial and emotional value. There's a huge demand on social media for these products," Quintana noted.
The alarm system activated immediately, and police arrived just 30 seconds after the heist began. However, the thieves executed their plan with such speed that they left no traces for a timely response.
Pattern of Prior Surveillance Suspected
The owner suspects that the store was under surveillance beforehand. "They're definitely watching what we do," stated Quintana. "They're paying attention to what we have, when we move merchandise. They've probably been here before," he said to Local 10. The resemblance to another heist a month earlier at Stepped on Kicks in Pembroke Pines has raised alarms within the business community.
In that incident, three individuals with black containers also emptied shelves in seconds. "It's the same modus operandi," Quintana confirmed. Both businesses are now collaborating with each other and authorities to identify the culprits. "We don't think they'll stop or that they won't hit similar businesses or strike again," he warned CBS News.
A Community Business Strikes Back
Kicks Circuit, a business born among friends with deep roots in the Kendall community, feels completely disrespected. "This store is our home," Quintana expressed emotionally. On social media, the store expressed gratitude that no one was injured and emphasized its commitment to safety: "We are immensely thankful that no one was hurt or threatened during this incident."
Despite the loss, the store announced it will reopen on Friday, driven by the support of its customers and the hope that justice will be served. "The break-in is only fueling our drive," concluded the store owner.
Ongoing Investigation and Community Appeal
Miami-Dade Police have confirmed that the case is under investigation, though no arrests have been made yet. Meanwhile, the owners have shared surveillance footage in hopes the community can provide tips to help identify the robbers.
"I was born and raised in Kendall. I love this community. And all I want is for this not to happen to anyone else. To find them," Quintana stated with determination.
Miami Heist Investigation FAQs
What was the target of the Miami heist?
The target was Kicks Circuit, a high-end urban fashion store in Kendall, Florida.
How much is the estimated loss from the heist?
The estimated loss from the heist exceeds $12,000.
What brands were stolen during the heist?
Luxury brands stolen included Supreme, Bape, Chrome Hearts, and Gallery Dept.
Were there any arrests made in connection with the heist?
As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with the heist.