Two suspects were arrested in connection with a destructive liquor store burglary and a street racing takeover in Long Beach.
The suspects were identified as Tonjai Webster Jr., 20, of Los Angeles, and Christopher J. Villegas, 20, of Lakewood, according to the Long Beach Police Department.
On July 14, police responded to reports of a burglary and an illegal street racing takeover at the intersection of Orange Avenue and Harding Street. Video from the scene showed a car doing several donuts as the crowd continued growing.
As police were on the way, a large group had shattered the entrance to J&G Market at 6190 Orange Ave. and began looting the store. The group fled before officers arrived, leaving a trail of destruction behind.
After viewing surveillance footage and speaking with witnesses, detectives identified two suspects involved in the crimes. On Aug. 25, arrest and seizure warrants were served in multiple cities including Long Beach, Lakewood, Santa Ana, Inglewood and Bell Gardens.
During the operation, seven vehicles involved in the takeovers were seized. Photos of the bust showed several Lexus sedans, a Chevrolet Camaro, an Acura sedan and more being towed from residences.
Villegas was arrested for felony vandalism related to street racing and Webster Jr. was arrested for commercial burglary.
“Our community was concerned by the actions that took place on July 14th and the Long Beach Police Department has responded with focused and direct action,” said Long Beach Police Chief Wally Hebeish. “The outstanding work of our detectives and police officers has led to the arrest of suspects responsible for vandalism and burglary, as well as the seizure of vehicles from the illegal “street racing” event. We will not accept dangerous and criminal behavior like this in our city, and those participating in any type of illegal motor vehicle gatherings or associated crimes will be identified and arrested.”
“Detectives continue to pursue all investigative leads to identify and arrest suspects involved in this incident,” the department said.
The cases will be presented to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office for filing consideration.
Anyone with information on the case is asked to call LBPD’s Burglary Detail at 562-570-7351 or email [email protected].
Anonymous tips can be provided to L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at lacrimestoppers.org.
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