ATF Offers $10K Reward for Information on Retail Gun Theft

Two Clerks Shot as Robbers Steal 6 Firearms from Savannah Pawn Shop

ATLANTA — A reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest and convictions of those responsible for a recent firearms armed robbery at Welsh Pawn Shop, a federally licensed gun dealer in Savannah, Ga. was announced today by Gregory K. Gant, Special Agent in Charge of the Atlanta Field Division, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Savannah/Chatham County Crime Stoppers has pledged a reward of up to $2,500 for the arrest of those responsible for the robbery. The owners of Welsh Pawn have also announced an additional reward of $5,000 for information leading to the arrest of the perpetrators. This crime has triggered a joint investigation between ATF and the Savannah—Chatham Metro Police Department.

“The people of Savannah deserve a safe community. Unfortunately, there are a few violent individuals whose illegal activities threaten to diminish our quality of life. Gun thieves play a critical and deadly role in the chain of violence. ATF will continue to partner with state and local law enforcement agencies to solve this crime,” Gant said.

The armed robbery occurred around 10 a.m., Friday, at the business located at

2800 Skidaway Rd., Savannah, Ga.

The suspects walked into the business, asked workers to view a few items, then started shooting. Two clerks were shot and received non life—threatening injuries. The robbers smashed glass cases and removed several items to include six firearms. The clerks could only identify the robbers as two black males, wearing dark clothing and baseball caps.

Investigators are seeking the public’s help with identifying the subjects involved and providing information on the location of any or all of the stolen firearms. Anyone with information is encouraged to call ATF’s toll-free, 24—hour hotline at 1—888—ATF—TIPS (1—888—283—8477) or Savannah/Chatham County Crime Stoppers at (912) 234—2020. Callers can remain anonymous.

More information about ATF and its programs is available at www.atf.gov.