A popular Windsor sporting goods store is moving forward after thieves hit the business early Monday morning.
At around 5:45 a.m., two people were seen on security camera forcing the front door off of Bob Reaume Sports on Tecumseh Road East near Ford Boulevard. The business posted the video on its Facebook page.
Owner Bob Reaume told WindsorNewsToday.ca that the culprits appeared to know what they were doing.
"They had the vehicle that you see in the photos. They also had a chain," said Reaume. "They broke the window on the door, hooked up the chain to the bars, and yanked the door right off its hinges."
Once inside, thousands of dollars worth of merchandise was stolen, though Reaume said there was no final estimate yet on what was taken.
The break-and-enter occurred at a time when the business typically thrives due to hockey season, and Reaume said the timing of the incident did not help matters.
"We got to get some product," said Reaume. "For people shopping now, we still have lots of stuff, and in other areas also, but there's some stock we need to replenish before Christmas. The question will be whether it's in stock and how fast it can get here, which I haven't heard back from anybody."
Reaume said he has already been in contact with Nike, which is the official licencee for Major League Baseball and NFL apparel. He said the sportswear giant is working with him to get items back on shelves.
He added that the store is open as usual, and he was pleased to see the community's response to what happened.
Windsor police have confirmed that a break-and-enter was reported at the location. No further details have been provided.
A security camera image of the suspect vehicle has been released, with the licence plate number visible.
The investigation is ongoing.
Anyone with information on the vehicle used in the theft, or who may have witnessed the incident, should call Windsor police at (519) 258-6111. Anonymous tips may be submitted to Crime Stoppers at (519) 258-TIPS (8477).