Armed suspects rob Lakewood jewelry store, smash door to escape

Police are investigating an armed robbery at a Lakewood jewelry store Wednesday afternoon.

According to the Lakewood Police Department, the robbery happened around 3:30 p.m. at Crown Jewelry on Steilacoom Boulevard.

Police said one person was buzzed into the store and was quickly followed inside by three others. One of the suspects was armed with a rifle, while the others carried axes.

• Follow this link to read additional stories from KIRO 7

Once inside, the suspects used the axes to smash display cases and steal an unspecified amount of jewelry, police said.

According to the police report, the suspects then became locked inside the store because of the door’s locking mechanism, and smashed through the door to get out before fleeing in a waiting vehicle.

There were initial reports that shots had been fired during the robbery, but police said those reports were incorrect. Investigators believe the sounds heard by people at neighboring businesses came from the suspects smashing the door.

The suspects wore clothing and face coverings that prevented police from immediately identifying them.

Detectives are investigating and working to develop leads in the case.

• Follow this link to read additional stories from KIRO 7