Multiple businesses were vandalized, and at least one was burglarized on the 8500 block of Pico Boulevard early Nov. 5. At least six store owners in the Pico-Robertson neighborhood woke up to the realization that their stores were vandalized around 4:30 a.m. Security footage reviewed by the Courier shows a man walking down the street smashing windows and kicking garbage cans onto Pico Boulevard. Among the stores vandalized were Got Kosher Bakery, Glatt Mart, Bargain Oakhurst Pharmacy and Elat Market.
A rumor circulated via social media that there were gunshots used during the vandalism. However, the LAPD confirmed that there was no evidence of gunshots in the area. An LAPD spokesperson also indicated that the incidents are being investigated as possible hate crimes.
Alan Toolami, the owner of Beverly Oakhurst Pharmacy, stood outside his business on Nov. 5 after workers cleared the shattered glass of a window. He said that his alarm never went off because the person vandalizing hadn’t attempted to get into the business. Another shop owner, who asked not to be named, looked through his security footage and provided a photo of a man in the process of grabbing what appears to be a skiing pole at 4:35 a.m.
Rabbi Yossi Eilfort, founder of Magen Am, the Jewish nonprofit community security organization, told the Courier, “It appears to have been possibly somebody experiencing homelessness who took a weapon of opportunity or a tool of opportunity to smash a few windows, walk into one of the stores to steal something.”
Los Angeles City Councilmember Katy Yaroslavsky stated on social media, “This morning’s vandalism against Jewish-owned businesses in Pico-Robertson is alarming and unacceptable. On a day when Angelenos are casting their votes and shaping the future of our city, it’s especially troubling to see acts that harm our community.”
In addition to Yaroslavsky, the statement is signed by LA Councilmember Traci Park, LA Mayor Karen Bass, Santa Monica Mayor Phil Brock, LA County Supervisors Lindsey Horvath and Holly Mitchell, California State Assembly Members Rick Chavez Zbur and Jacqui Irwin, and California State Senator Ben Allen.
Elected leaders representing LA Westside communities also issued a joint statement in response to the vandalism.
“As leaders representing the Westside of Los Angeles, we stand together to strongly condemn recent antisemitic incidents targeting Jewish neighborhoods in our community. These acts threaten the safety, dignity, and respect that every resident in our community deserves. We are committed to working with local law enforcement, community organizations and leaders across the city to respond swiftly to these threats and ensure that Jewish Angelenos feel safe, supported, and valued. Together, we stand firm against hate and protect the strength and resilience of our diverse communities.”
