West Seattle Crime Watch: Police search after ‘takeover robbery’ at estate sale in Belvidere

(Added: Photos by Mike Scharer)
3:51 PM: A police search is under way right now in the Admiral area after a report of a “takeover-style” robbery inside a home – with masked robber/s ordering people to get on the ground, and then fleeing on foot. A K-9 team is on the way. We have a crew headed to the area.

3:56 PM: The suspect description just broadcast is “white male, 20s, 5’10”, husky build, black handgun,” dressed in dark clothing, including a ski mask. This is unfolding in the Belvidere area – the scene is near Belvidere and Hinds (map).

4:12 PM: Co-publisher Patrick Sand has talked to police in the area; they confirm nobody hurt, a K-9 team is searching the area so if you’re in that vicinity, stay off the sidewalk/street to avoid possibly interrupting the trail.

4:26 PM: If you’re seeing/hearing a helicopter, it’s TV. Police are still very actively searching and following on a couple of leads – but there is no one in custody yet. According to multiple reports (including Diane in comments), the house where this happened has been having an estate sale.

4:33 PM: We do NOT have confirmation that this is the suspect – but per scanner, police have pulled over a car that was seen in the area with someone resembling the description, and they have one person in custody. More to come – still avoid the area as it will be up to police to determine if they have the person they’ve been seeking.

4:41 PM: Apparently that was NOT the person they were seeking. Search continues.

4:53 PM: Adding photos by Mike Scharer, taken as police made their initial guns-drawn entry to the robbery scene and started searching the area. The search, with the help of K-9, is still under way. That indicates there is a strong possibility they believe the robber is in the area – so please call 911 if you see ANYTHING suspicious.

5:20 PM: Still no luck finding the robber. There are indications that people who have been kept from their homes will be allowed back in shortly.

5:35 PM: A couple notes from the SPD Blotter report about this – “jewelry and cash” was taken from victims who were at the estate sale when this happened, plus it’s a confirmation of one robber.

11:21 PM NOTE: Just in case you’re wondering, yes, we’re still tracking this, but there’s no word of an arrest.

Ian January 31, 2013 (3:57 pm)

Any indication of the location within Admiral?

golden January 31, 2013 (3:57 pm)

5 police cars heading northbound on Delridge Way just now

WSB January 31, 2013 (4:00 pm)

Just checked back on that, near Belvidere and Hinds.

Mama2papa January 31, 2013 (4:02 pm)

Why is 38th Ave. Blocked off?

WSB January 31, 2013 (4:09 pm)

Mama – when there is a search, police do what they call “containment” – they block off the area at various points – While an incident is active, it’s always helpful not to mention specific blocked-off locations – not that criminals are likely to be plugging into online news but you never know. Also, there’s a K-9 team and they need to try to maintain the scent trail wherever possible, so if you’re in that general area, stay off the street so that you don’t accidentally interrupt the trail – my co-publisher is nearby and says police have advised that – TR

FYI January 31, 2013 (4:02 pm)

SPD car, lights on, was parked on Belvidere and hanford, just pulled away 2 minuts ago.

Admiral Resident January 31, 2013 (4:04 pm)

They’ve circled past my house a couple times (the cops, not the suspect). I’m at 38th & Olga.

Chris W January 31, 2013 (4:05 pm)

Thank you! Will avoid going to the mailbox til this is resolved.

Noelle January 31, 2013 (4:05 pm)

scary

Diane January 31, 2013 (4:06 pm)

this is next door to me; I was just inside there 20 mins ago

MikeRussellFoto January 31, 2013 (4:07 pm)

Yikes, was just about to go for a run in that direction. I guess I’ll head north instead.

Diane January 31, 2013 (4:08 pm)

this is an estate sale for my neighbor who just died in Nov; you did a story on him, and I went to his funeral; I was inside his home for past 2 hrs; just left to take a shower, and came out to see tons of police with guns drawn going inside basement apt of the house; holy shit

Diane January 31, 2013 (4:09 pm)

it’s on corner of Belvidere and Hinds; I live right next door in apt bldg

WSB January 31, 2013 (4:10 pm)

Wow, Diane, close call. Nobody hurt, though – Patrick has just gotten that from police (I’m adding to story)…

Belvidere resident January 31, 2013 (4:10 pm)

chopper on scene

Look4wrd January 31, 2013 (4:17 pm)

Thank you WSB! Went out to get the mail, saw the helicopter, came back in and found the scoop. My door is now locked. A couple of blocks east of the incident.

Liz January 31, 2013 (4:18 pm)

I went to the estate sale this afternoon and there was some really nice jewelry as in 14K solid gold men’s chains, and diamond and gold bracelets. I go to a lot of garage/estate sales and will be more careful of who is around me in the future!

Mike January 31, 2013 (4:21 pm)

Helicopter overhead. Just east of Hanford and Admiral.

West Seattle luv January 31, 2013 (4:24 pm)

Cops are blocking hinds at California. I hear a helicopter overhead.

WSB January 31, 2013 (4:25 pm)

The helicopter is TV.

RS January 31, 2013 (4:25 pm)

Wait so the robber was robbing an estate sale?

Annie January 31, 2013 (4:26 pm)

the helicopter is right over my house. my best friend lives about 3 doors down from the invasion. eeek!

Diane January 31, 2013 (4:29 pm)

I called your # while watching tons of cops with guns drawn going into the basement apt

Keith January 31, 2013 (4:30 pm)

Rats — was hoping that was a police copter in case the suspect is in the area — I am in a business at Hinds/California. Door locked — ready to call 9/11.

Faith4 January 31, 2013 (4:30 pm)

Am I reading this right….this armed robbery was at an estate sale.

Kelsie January 31, 2013 (4:31 pm)

Hearing the copter loud and clear from Avalon/Genesee.

Diane January 31, 2013 (4:31 pm)

I went out outside; the police told me to go home; they’re not allowing anyone out there except witnesses; my car is parked on that corner, so I can’t even leave

Diane January 31, 2013 (4:33 pm)

I went to my neighbor across the hall and burst into tears; totally shaking; I was at the estate sale for 2 hrs in every inch of the house; if I had stayed 20 more mins…….scares the hell out of me

ls January 31, 2013 (4:33 pm)

should the schools or hiawatha community center be concerned, since they are nearby?

Kristin January 31, 2013 (4:35 pm)

My husband drove by the estate sale this morning but the line was 30+ deep. Decided to pass. Scary.

Diane January 31, 2013 (4:35 pm)

yes, the robbery was at the estate sale, for my neighbor who just died in Nov

Tracy January 31, 2013 (4:35 pm)

Watching the helicopters now from our window. They are just southeast of Madison middle school staying in one spot.

Captain Killigan January 31, 2013 (4:37 pm)

Police Helicopter has been hovering over Hiawatha for the past 15 min. I am currently across from the park.

Diane January 31, 2013 (4:37 pm)

there have been several helicopters over us for awhile now

wsn00b January 31, 2013 (4:39 pm)

I had no idea what an estate sale was till now. The info seems to be available rather publicly. This takes “craigslist attacks” to another level.

http://www.estatesales.net/estate-sales/383328.aspx
shows the belvidere/hinds address that I think is being referred to above. Just doing a google search of “seattle estate sales” brings up a lot.

Ace20604 January 31, 2013 (4:39 pm)

Appears two media helicopters, no police helicopters? Crime makes story..story’s make aviation fuel.

WSB January 31, 2013 (4:40 pm)

Guardian One might not have been called/available. But since 5 pm news is coming up, police search is always good visual fodder.

terri January 31, 2013 (4:40 pm)

Dang, this is too close to home, seeing as I am on 41st and hinds. Hope they catch the guy.

miws January 31, 2013 (4:42 pm)

Diane—{{{{{Hugs}}}}

Mike

Diane January 31, 2013 (4:46 pm)

today is 1st day of this sale; the estate sellers told me there was a line of 30 outside before they opened at 9am; it was not super crowded inside

aml January 31, 2013 (4:49 pm)

Lafayette elementary is aware and following lockdown procedures.

Faith4 January 31, 2013 (4:51 pm)

I can see from the list on this sale why this estate sale could have been a target. Hopefully, they removed money from the area during the day so it was not all there! Hope they catch this guy. Our family is on lock down right now to be safe. Thanks WSB.

cam user January 31, 2013 (4:52 pm)

Anyone have a further description? In the area (1 block away) and have had my camera recording on the street all day.

Walnut January 31, 2013 (4:57 pm)

Oh no! Is this at Cherie’s Dog Grooming?

Cris January 31, 2013 (4:59 pm)

Hiawatha Cc is locked-down. Nobody in and nobody out!

Tony S January 31, 2013 (5:00 pm)

Yes, it is!

Jeffrey January 31, 2013 (5:01 pm)

Hey Diane….. you dont live in 3401 hinds apartment do you….? Is that place surrounded??

Rachel Lanera January 31, 2013 (5:01 pm)

It might help to turn all outside lights on. helps to see the shadows and eliminate dark walkways.

toodles January 31, 2013 (5:03 pm)

Very scary. I’m staying indoors..

WSB January 31, 2013 (5:05 pm)

The backstory of course takes a back seat to the search – which is still under way, and we have a crew there – but here’s the obituary Diane mentioned from November: https://westseattleblog.com/2012/11/memorial-next-tuesday-for-longtime-west-seattleite-frank-lunetti

J January 31, 2013 (5:05 pm)

Thank you SPD & West Seattle Blog. Your work is helpful in a crazy situation.
Also, thanks to the teenage boys walking down the street. They filled me in and told me to get in the house.

wetone January 31, 2013 (5:06 pm)

Between this and all the cars getting stolen in this area the hood is going down hill.

JD January 31, 2013 (5:07 pm)

Just left there a little after noon. I feel bad for the people who were there when this happened.

Faith4 January 31, 2013 (5:07 pm)

Cam user – you should let the police know about your camera in case there is something on it that could help them.

sven January 31, 2013 (5:12 pm)

Looks like the helicopters that were hovering have moved a little east…

Diane January 31, 2013 (5:13 pm)

yes Jeffrey; that’s my apt building in the background; police still have us blocked off

Jen January 31, 2013 (5:13 pm)

Did they get him? Helecopters have been almost directly over my house for half an hour now and they are suddenly gone. My daughter and I are locked inside with the curtains closed and the lights off. I’m freaking out over here, West Seattle Blog! Nothing on the freaking news! WTH is going on?!?

WSB January 31, 2013 (5:19 pm)

We ARE the ‘freaking news,’ Jen. TV sent choppers over hoping for some drama but otherwise not that thrilling a story, I guess, though I hear there is one crew on the ground somewhere. Remember, TV has to cover 22 counties, we only have to cover 1 neighborhood with 85,000 people. Anyway – NO ARREST YET. And the search is scaling back.

helridge January 31, 2013 (5:14 pm)

No wetone, our hood is prosperous, that’s why degenerates come here to rob us.

Diane January 31, 2013 (5:15 pm)

yes Walnut, it’s the house with the dog grooming biz attached in front

resident January 31, 2013 (5:16 pm)

i am two houses away from 37th/hinds. this happened right about 330 because i just walked past after getting kids from bus. was police cars 5 minutes later flying by with lights on and choppers to follow 10 minutes later. area still being checked and all police cars still in place. Lets get that guy!

William January 31, 2013 (5:17 pm)

I just wish the new security cameras were not pointed at the water and were pointed at escape routes for the robbers!

Diane January 31, 2013 (5:18 pm)

bottom photo is what I saw while calling wsblog from my apt window, literally 20 mins after leaving the estate sale; 1st a couple officers stood behind car across the street aimed at the house; totally freaked me out; then a line of officers went into basement apt with guns drawn; scary scary scary

helridge January 31, 2013 (5:23 pm)

KOMO has reported this story now.

TD January 31, 2013 (5:25 pm)

Well said, WSB. You are indeed the news for this neighborhood. Thank you for all that you do in such a timely fashion!

Tired Mama January 31, 2013 (5:25 pm)

Bright Horizons at 4530 38th Ave SW is or was in “stay-in-place.”

Laurel January 31, 2013 (5:27 pm)

Story was just on — on Komo 4. Real brief though.

WSB January 31, 2013 (5:31 pm)

They are not on the ground. Like I said (we hear helicopter traffic too), they sent a chopper over here thinking something was going on but the assignment editor opened up with “we don’t even know what we have” for starters. They’ve pulled it back to go refuel and might be back for the start of the 6 pm news but it’s dark obviously and they won’t see much. I worked in TV for 30 years, sometimes you go on spec. But they don’t have anything we don’t – I’ve had someone on the ground since the start, and here at HQ, I’ve got the scanner going, etc. SPD Blotter has posted something too but no additional details except that the robber took jewelry and cash from salegoers:
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http://spdblotter.seattle.gov/2013/01/31/police-searching-for-west-seattle-home-invasion-suspect/

bud monk January 31, 2013 (5:29 pm)

Anybody know how long a news helicopter can
hover in the air?

Anne January 31, 2013 (5:30 pm)

KIRO had team on the ground to start their 5 pm. News – but no one informs West Seattleites better than the WSB– thanks!

raybro January 31, 2013 (5:32 pm)

Shout out to the blog. Heard the helicopters, got curious and checked WSB. AS usual, if it happens on the Westside, you good folks are on it.

Mary January 31, 2013 (5:33 pm)

So, I see those two pictures with police around the house. Was the robber in there first and then escaped, or was he gone by the time police got there? Does anyone know the details? Was he on foot or what?

Tony S January 31, 2013 (5:37 pm)

You guys rock, WSB! We live one block away and we’ve gotten more information from you than the officer stationed on 37th (btwn Hanford & Hinds).

I understand that he can’t sit around and chat up the local civilians, but he also didn’t need to be rude about it.

Tamara January 31, 2013 (5:38 pm)

Wow… I was trying to convince my dad to go with me (along with my toddler) today! This is so creepy! Now, I have to be scared if estate sales??? It is really quite brilliant, if you think about it though… Lots of collectibles, people with lots of cash, no security or cameras… Damn you robbers! I hope they catch this guy soon and there are no “copy cat” incidences. This is exactly why citizens should always be allowed to carry. The bad guys will always come packing! So glad no one was injured!

WSB January 31, 2013 (5:41 pm)

The other thing to consider about this one … close to the bridge. Not to say you are immune from crime if there is not an easy getaway. But we have heard police say before, that’s certainly a factor.
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P.S. RP – Can you see police anywhere near your house, that you might at least be able to shout to, to ask them?

RP January 31, 2013 (5:40 pm)

Are we allowed to leave our homes yet if we live in the vicinity? How will we know when it’s safe to leave?

Yma January 31, 2013 (5:42 pm)

Really appreciate your coverage WSB.
Westside school – though further South -went into a lockdown just as I got there to pick up my girl. I knew I could turn to WSB to see what was up. Btw – at Westside, kids ARE being released to parents.

Cclarue January 31, 2013 (5:43 pm)

Who does that? Robbing an estate sale! Shame on you!!

andover January 31, 2013 (5:44 pm)

We’re a few blocks south and are grateful to WSB for the best updates. It helped my son’s ease of mind to know details sooner rather than later. We did check out the local news channels at 5 PM and KIRO did have footage from the air and had a reporter down the street from the police cars. Not many details given, but they did have a report.

Diane January 31, 2013 (5:47 pm)

the police unblocked our street about 10 mins ago

mookie January 31, 2013 (5:49 pm)

@Mary – From what I heard on the scanner, call (or calls) came in about robbery, with description of the crime, the criminal, and that he had been seen leaving the area on foot. Police were dispatched and on scene within minutes. I think they “cleared” the house at gunpoint not knowing for sure whether there was a second suspect still there or not; the initial calls coming in first said the guy was IN the house, other reports before police arrived said he had left on foot…also, per the scanner traffic, one person at the scene told an officer that there had been “shots fired” inside the house; other witness or witnesses told the police that NO shots had been fired.

Mary January 31, 2013 (5:49 pm)

We are near Madison Middle School, and just a few minutes ago, the sound of the helicopter disappeared. It was just above us flying around for over an hour and a half. Did it go elsewhere to search? Any new news?

Diane January 31, 2013 (5:52 pm)

my apt neighbor (across the hall) said she got there right after the robbery and before police showed up
~
the robber escaped; thus the lock-down and manhunt
~
all the police would tell me was they think he ran on foot heading west; but my apt neighbor saw a few cars drive off right after the robbery, one guy “looking suspicious”, so who knows; may still be hiding here, or may be miles away

WsEd January 31, 2013 (5:53 pm)

I wonder if this is the same dirtbag that just robbed the gas station on Roxbury.

Diane January 31, 2013 (5:55 pm)

re escape route; yes, we’re directly above the bridge, many fast easy ways to escape fast by car

RS January 31, 2013 (5:55 pm)

It’s not really close to the bridge compared to places further south on 35th towards the junction and further north towards admiral way. Tons of intersections, one lane streets with parked cars, etc.

G January 31, 2013 (5:55 pm)

They are a block from my house, right off 44th and Hanford, looking in the ravine for the suspect.

Welcome to “Fortress West Seattle”

This is getting insane.

RP January 31, 2013 (5:56 pm)

As excited as I was to have a real investigative mission on behalf of the blog, there are no police around (one block over). : ) Anyone else see a police officer around who can be asked when it is okay to leave our homes?

Diane January 31, 2013 (5:56 pm)

re goods to steal; there was a ton of expensive jewelry in couple cases in main part of house, and lots of cash changing hands; I didn’t pay any attention to if/how they were securing cash

Draagro January 31, 2013 (5:57 pm)

Thanks again to WSB for your great coverage!!

Diane January 31, 2013 (5:59 pm)

I can see estate sellers back inside the house; and kids now playing on street corner

mrsB January 31, 2013 (6:00 pm)

KOMO TV just led with this story on 6:00 PM news…

Diane January 31, 2013 (6:00 pm)

tv news live on the ground now

Jen January 31, 2013 (6:04 pm)

I ALWAYS go here first for WS news. You’ve never failed me.

Shaken up January 31, 2013 (6:05 pm)

WSB thanks for the great coverage. I was inside the house when it happened and just got home after waiting to give a statement to the police. I got more information from this webpage than from being at the scene! I know myself and some of the other witnesses were refreshing to see if they had found anyone yet. As a west seattle resident I always turn to WSB for the real news!

WSB January 31, 2013 (6:22 pm)

“Shaken up” – I hope you are OK! Of all the places someone would not expect something like this to happen …

Second thoughts January 31, 2013 (6:09 pm)

I’m beginning to think I’ve been sold a bill of goods by the people who have told me how wonderful West Seattle is. I can hardly sleep at night, and I’m afraid to go out in the evening. Now I have to worry about the daytime as well?

Peanut January 31, 2013 (6:09 pm)

I live near Loman Beach. What’s with the chopper action. I’m nervous to walk the dogs.

jissy January 31, 2013 (6:17 pm)

Helicopters were just over Lowman Beach area.

WSB January 31, 2013 (6:19 pm)

That was related to something I haven’t written about here yet but we’ve discussed on Facebook and Twitter. There was a brief, mistaken report that somebody saw “a dead whale” off Constellation Park. Co-publisher has been down there as has other media – and TV chopper or two. Turned out to be a resting sea lion, per Robin from Seal Sitters.

Tony January 31, 2013 (6:19 pm)

Copter was low hovering around Lowman beach area for about 20-30 min. Just left.

cam user January 31, 2013 (6:20 pm)

Will be dropping my afternoon recording off to the police station in the morning.

RG January 31, 2013 (6:20 pm)

(I don’t mean to take away from the actual story here but I know for a fact that some local news people/agencies get their info from the WSB. Our WSB.)

heath January 31, 2013 (6:26 pm)

its crazy to know my daughter and her dad were just there after he picked her up from school at schmitz park minutes before.. i hope they get this person..i feel like to many people get away so easy..

jissy January 31, 2013 (6:27 pm)

Wonder if it was someone who went to the estate sale earlier in the day and was just too tempted by what was there … left to hatch a plan after scoping both the sale and neighborhood out? Dirt Bags!

RG January 31, 2013 (6:35 pm)

Second Thoughts,

If you scroll down the main page of the WSB you’ll see a photo of a squirrel. In essence, that’s what West Seattle is all about, real life; not fear mongering. Mr Squirrel is representative of something larger than crime. I hope that makes sense. This blog fosters community. Crime is everywhere, we’re simply more informed because of the WSB. And in the end that’s good for our families, friends, and neighbors. (Neighbors, who, by the way, I wouldn’t know if it weren’t for the WSB).

JayDee January 31, 2013 (6:47 pm)

Second Thoughts:

Where did you live before? Was it that safe? WS is mayberry RFD compared to Cap Hill, First Hill, Beacon Hill, the CD, lower QA, and parts near I-5 and Aurora. And they are not D.C. or Baltimore, or Inglewood (L.A.).

Much discussed here is the fact that because neighborhood activities are covered and reported on doesn’t mean we are more or less safe–it is the state of knowledge that has changed. I think petty crimes, car theft, mail theft are pretty common. No good, but not unusual. West Seattle is just as wonderful–just read WSB where people donate a new wagon to replace a stolen one, or people pay for other’s bills, and so on. It will look better when the sun returns…

Craig January 31, 2013 (6:48 pm)

This guy obviously didn’t know about the City’s excellent gift card incentive to turn in his gun. I thought turning in our guns would make us safer!

David January 31, 2013 (6:52 pm)

Just went to my car parked 37th and Hinds. Still police present, now TV cameras.

Guy January 31, 2013 (6:56 pm)

Thank you West Seattle Blog! Great job!

Margaret in Vashon January 31, 2013 (7:20 pm)

I think that JayDee makes an excellent point. I keep trying to get people to say WHERE this place is that they will move to that is crime-free. I don’t believe that it exists, nor has it ever. I choose to believe that the wagon-replacers and bill-payers make up the WS world (along with the seal-sitters and the diaper-collectors.) Don’t let the fear win.

Naybore January 31, 2013 (7:32 pm)

On cragslist i now see tons of jewelry posted 2 hours ago as California and admiral. Related? Look for “west seattle” under for sale.

wowza January 31, 2013 (7:33 pm)

Work it WSB and SPD! WSB I’d love to buy you a helicopter if I could afford it :) This is scary stuff for sure. Glad to have the protection of SPD and the information of WSB.

? ? ? January 31, 2013 (7:38 pm)

Kids at Madison were in lock down, how did I find out? My student told me when he got home he called me at work. No call from the the school or the school district. I would have liked them to call I would not have let him to walk home at 4:30

datamuse January 31, 2013 (7:53 pm)

Call me jaded–I did, after all, grow up in the D.C. area when it was the homicide capital of the United States–but while this is obviously an unsettling and scary event, it’s also rare. Living in West Seattle has never scared me, not even when somebody shot at my neighbor’s house.
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As it happens, I might be moving, but not because I don’t like it here or see it as unsafe. My husband’s an introvert and there’s too many of y’all for him. ;)

Lordy January 31, 2013 (7:57 pm)

Craig I can’t believe the ignorance of turning in your guns to make you feel safer!!! If most people carried a concealed gun maybe us every day people wouldn’t be such easy targets for these guys. He himself would be uneasy of who is sneaking up behind him.

PDH January 31, 2013 (8:07 pm)

Coming home on the bridge, seeing copter above and flashing lights on the hillside, I knew we could get the news from WSB! First place we checked… Thanks again!!!!

Chuck and Sally's Van Man January 31, 2013 (8:14 pm)

Lordy: I think (hope!) Craig was being facetious. Perhaps not…

West Seattle Hipster January 31, 2013 (8:16 pm)

Reading the West Seattle Blog over the past month I am struck by how rampant crime has become in our neighborhoods. West Seattle IS a great place to live, but unfortunately our city leaders place a very low priority on public safety and instead take care of the special interest groups that got them elected.

This in one of the reasons I will vote for Tim Burgess for mayor. As a former SPD cop, I believe he will make public safety a priority.

Truthteller January 31, 2013 (8:38 pm)

I live two houses NW of here. 3 months ago a man tried to force his way into our home at 2AMish. He was pounding on the door and yelling at us to let him in. It took the police 15 min. to get here because they were on a call on Roxbury. Someone has frequently shaken the garage door in the middle of the night like they are trying to get it open. It wakes us all up and I have called the police several times but not everytime. Another time my daughter heard someone running behind our house. The police poo poo that. Animals they said. After they left she said “mom I know it was not an animal” Our cars on this end of the block are broken into so much we [all of us] just stopped calling the police. It is worse in the summer. In the 8 years I have lived in this house, the 3 houses across the street have had 5 cars stolen between them. One just last year. After our attempted break in, I wrote a letter to the police neighborhood captain? [or something like that.] detailing the crimes. No response. I realize that this recent event is a Craigslist related crime but it adds to the toll of problems we are having on this end of the block. It is really stressful for me and my kids. I grew up a block away and so did my parents and grandparents. I know this is called progress. But Why? For the corporation that buys all the available property in WS to build another 5,000 apartment units with no available funding for more police? And what do more police do? My friend is an officer in WS, he told me “we get one bad guy and another one just pops up” Oh and gun control? If we get that only criminals will have guns.

Evergreen January 31, 2013 (8:49 pm)

I grew up in a rural town in another state, and we never had the same volume of crime as West Seattle. Of course crime happens everywhere in the U.S., but for many smaller towns and rural suburban areas it is enough of an exception to be front page news. It is scary sometimes in Seattle, especially for families with children. But then I remind myself that this is actually a city, duh, and of course there will be more crime. West Seattle sometimes feels like a small sleepy town, which is wonderful, but we will of course also have urban problems (but not of the same magnitude as large cities)…but we have all the advantages too, plus great scenery.

Lordy January 31, 2013 (8:55 pm)

Oh yeah Chuck and Sally
Ha ha! You never know in this PC town.

What I want to know is, is this estate sale open tomorrow? 25% off :) 50% on Saturday.

justme January 31, 2013 (9:08 pm)

My dog needs to go out. Is it safe to leave our houses yet?

Craig January 31, 2013 (9:37 pm)

Lordy,

Doesn’t surprise me with all the ignorance discussions lately that someone could take my buy back comment seriously. Please don’t rob me Mr. Masked gunman. Think that would have deterred him?

Tony S January 31, 2013 (9:38 pm)

Truthteller, you’re saying that you live TWO houses down, you’ve had a forced entry attempt, several “attempts” to break in at your garage and FIVE stolen cars with your next-door neighbors? On Belvidere? How come these stats aren’t showing up on all the crime summaries? I’ve lived in this neighborhood (3200 block of Belivedere) since the building that was help up today was Beck’s Grocery Store, and Poodle Elegance after that. This is the first I’ve heard of how horribly crime-ridden our neighborhood is. In fact, at the Block Watch parties, this hasn’t been mentioned. We’ve had a few car-prowls, and there was a truck stolen down the block 3 years ago, but as far as our 3-block area we’ve been safe. I just find it strange and sad that you’re being singled out so severely.

Second thoughts January 31, 2013 (10:30 pm)

To answer the questions above, I lived in Wedgwood before this, and I am pretty sure I am heading back north – especially after reading some of these comments!

People always told me that south of the ship canal was a different world, and now I believe it. I don’t know if it’s lack of police, or just a different level of acceptance for the unacceptable, but I don’t like this constant drumbeat of crime and violence. This is not the Seattle I know.

She January 31, 2013 (10:42 pm)

Craig,

Thank you for your first comment. We here had a great chuckled and completely agree. We are sorry for the people who didn’t read the post how you intended it. Thank you for your “buy back” comment we much appreciated it. I must say I feel much safer with all those horrible nasty guns off the street.(jk) lol

WMF January 31, 2013 (10:46 pm)

3200 block of Belvedere is a rough part of town. I thought all the locals knew to stay away from there…

You heard someone running and called the cops? And they actually came???

Belvidere resident January 31, 2013 (11:05 pm)

Truthteller, I live a block north and we have had none of the issues you have faced. We have been here ten years and I can recall a couple of car accidents and the occasional drunk driver crash, but no break ins, no car thefts, no people in our yard. Perhaps its because Hanford is busy and prowlers avoid our end of the block, but Im sorry this happens to you, that sucks.

WS native January 31, 2013 (11:11 pm)

As a very engaged parent in Seattle Public Schools district affairs, AND hanging at Madison for a B-Ball game tonight during the search I have to say:

I saw administrators and security personnel working hard to control and herd the hundreds of students who were to take part in the night’s B-Ball activities.

I think we’ve come a long way from the Cafe Racer Connecticut dude. This time, we experienced some inconveniences using the gym BUT I saw many staffers staying late to a) watch over the lockdown and b) watch over our students.

I never felt unsafe for my daughter or myself. Thanks WSB news service for your great non-sensationalist new service!

Carol O. January 31, 2013 (11:39 pm)

Armed Robbers all over the place, scary.

themightyrabbit January 31, 2013 (11:54 pm)

Never had any problem with police turning up in this neighborhood for various problems. And the neighborhood isn’t that bad at all. We look out for everyone, and report everything. Whether there’s a watch or not. There’s plenty of low lifes that have got disenchanted and gone else where to rob folks. This situation is definitely a special case. This was carefully executed obviously judging by the information available on the media. We’re ready though. This doesn’t go unnoticed.

Taeya February 1, 2013 (12:00 am)

We just saw three police cars in the westerly alley in the 3700 block between Manning and Charlestown. We are three blocks from the scene of today’s robbery. Police cars were there with lights on and approached with sirens blaring, but are gone now. Anyone know what is going on? Did they catch the guy?

datamuse February 1, 2013 (12:18 am)

Second thoughts, was there really less crime? Or was it just less reported?
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No other neighborhood in Seattle has a community news source like the WSB. Just cause you didn’t hear it doesn’t mean it didn’t happen.
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Of course this sort of thing is unacceptable and I find it bizarre that you seem to believe we think it is. I just don’t let the occasional incident keep me from living my life, that’s all. I’ve lived in Highland Park for 13 years and the worst thing that’s happened was some kid slashing my husband’s tires.
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Does that mean nothing will ever happen? Of course not. Does that mean I should hide under my bed?

Faith4 February 1, 2013 (4:42 am)

Connected or coincidence as someone noted above the vast amount of jewelry posted on 31st on Craig’s List with no address except California & Admiral and they would meet buyer in a business, etc. This is a lot of jewelry. I would hope the police have been alerted to check to be sure not related.

No way February 1, 2013 (5:26 am)

I am a Madison parent, we were not called to be told our students were in lock down? No robo call from our school or district. I picked up my student at 5:15 from the front of the school he was standing out there alone no staff around everyone must have been in the gym. Gun man was out there somewhere why were the students aloud to walk out front? I didnt know about the lock down until my student got in the car. As I pulled away I notice several students standing around near the gym maybe waiting for rides no adults were with them. They were in lock down for a short time then went into a gym to watch basketball game then I guess by 5pm kids where allowed to be on their own? Nice job SPS you never surprise me.

phil dirt February 1, 2013 (5:36 am)

Craig says, “I thought turning in our guns would make us safer!”

Crime will get much worse in West Seattle after the mayor and the city council pass “common sense gun control.” Like the old cliched saying goes, ” When guns are outlawed only outlaws will have guns.”

Because some of us do have guns, it does make the bad guys a little less likely to break into your houses if they think you might be home. Unlike England, for example, where 47% of home robberies occur when the occupants are home!

OK, moderators, go ahead and delete my post! We must have censorship by omission in order to protect the sensibilities of the sheeple.

Marty February 1, 2013 (5:57 am)

There’s a lot of good things about West Seattle, unfortunately the bad things get most of the media attention.

Carol O. February 1, 2013 (6:49 am)

In a short time period four stores have been held up including the one where a fifteen year boy was arrested, nine middle school students were armed robbed after school in seperate incidences, a man was also robbed at gunpoint and has his truck taken from him and now this estate sale robbery by gun. Car theft is way up and houses being broken into, no a person does’nt have to hide under their bed but it does help if people keep a eye out and report anything they see out of the ordinary to the police. Almost forgot to mention the house that was shot up seemingly at random, felt sorry for the couple that lives there.

Miss O February 1, 2013 (7:44 am)

We live in the area where this occurred, very close. Once again, because of WSB, I knew what was happening, what I needed to do to stay safe at home with two children, and I was also able to alert my neighbors, some of them mothers at home alone with children. Thank you so much for this service. YOU are part of what makes West Seattle stand out…crime and/or violence can be found anywhere, in the smallest/”safest” places. A sense of community is a rarity, especially in Seattle. Thanks again…

miws February 1, 2013 (9:29 am)

OK, moderators, go ahead and delete my post! We must have censorship by omission in order to protect the sensibilities of the sheeple.

phil dirt, was that insult to WSB really necessary?

Kinda takes any credibility out of the rest of your post….

Mike

GAnative February 1, 2013 (9:29 am)

My daughter goes to WSHS and they didn’t go into lockdown either. She stayed after school for about an hour and said that when she left there was a helicopter overhead and police were everywhere along California.

As she was telling me this at 10pm last night I told her we’d have to check WSB when we got home to see what was going on and here it is…

Thanks for keeping us in the know WSB!

thistle stairs February 1, 2013 (10:43 am)

Why are people so fearful? Death and suffering are the only things that are inevitable.Prepare yourself for it. Acceptance of death liberates you from fear, magnifies your fleeting joys,instills a grateful attitude and diminishes your (unimportant by comparison)troubles.Ironically, that acceptance is the spice of life.

Wetone February 1, 2013 (10:57 am)

Sad story and I hope this guy gets caught quickly. That said anyone that thinks cameras would help stop any type of crime I think not. It might help solve the crimes and that is a big maybe. Look at banks they have cameras, does that stop bank robbers ? no . This city needs to quit pissing money away in all their feel goody projects and things like this new camera project and invest money on a better finger print data base that ties all states together for police to use. They need to start taking finger prints again on ALL CRIMES. Very rarely they do this anymore. This city also needs to hire many more police officers as the population has grown so should the police force, not get smaller as they have done. The court system here needs a total rework as it is to PC.

Missliss February 1, 2013 (11:42 am)

Gracious, people. Violent crime was up citywide by 4% last year. What is up significantly is the speed with which it’s reported and our ease of access to those reports. This is a densely populated city and a densely populated part of the city. Most of us are safe.

Granted some of us are robbed and mistreated and that’s just plain wrong and we should do what we can to help minimize it (like reducing the number of guns out there), but let’s not generalize out that it’s crazy dangerous out there or, better yet, that it’s a “different world south of the Ship Canal”. Puhleeze. The only time my car’s been broken into in my 25 years in Seattle was NORTH of the Ship Canal. But anyway….

stephanie February 1, 2013 (12:31 pm)

I thought that part of WS was safer than my hood (Highland PK). Crime is everywhere people. Can’t keep crying “why” and just get used to it. Remember there are many other cities that have way more crime than us. San Jose, CA for one is a city I lived in for many years and never was a victim of crime. Oh and please stop saying that you wished you lived up north or in a ‘better area’, you are in a better area and there are lots of people that like living in the ‘scary areas’ you want to get out of.

Mossy Rock February 1, 2013 (1:43 pm)

I think the perp either lives in the vicinity and just returned to the safety of his home after pulling off the crime or he had an accomplice waiting in a car near the West Seattle bridge on-ramp. It would have taken him less than five minutes on foot, downhill all the way, to go down the staircase at Hinds and 35th, then down past the water pump station to Spokane and down the second set of stairs that end on Admiral Way. In this case, they would have been headed safely out of West Seattle by the time the first responders arrived.

WSB February 1, 2013 (2:38 pm)

For anyone following this comment thread who hasn’t seen our followup story yet:
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https://westseattleblog.com/?p=139387
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Police are hoping to hear from ANYONE in the general area who might have home security cam photos or video. And they promise anonymity. Contact info for the lead detective on the case is in the story linked above. – Tracy

Truthteller February 1, 2013 (5:42 pm)

Tony S. and other residents of our neighborhood on Belvidere. Yes the things really happened. The cars were stolen at 3 different houses across the street from me. One neighbor has had 3 cars stolen in 7 years. The last car theft was around May 2012 I think. That’s why we have new cars, not because we are rich. We do have our cars broken into all the time. At one point I just left my van unlocked. Have at those carseats and crusty PBJ’s in the back! Our most recent car break in was October 28th. We did report this one because they ruined my mom’s car locks. The police said they are stealing the paperwork to commit identity theft. I have not mentioned the skate board and mountain bike stolen out of our driveway. I guess I can say one good thing. Whoever stole the mountain bike returned it. Thanks. As far as the attempted home invasion, I did write about it on the blog, and wrote the police department about all the crime on this end of the block. As I said in my previous post. No reply. I feel helpless that anyone can do anything about it and feel like I have to go vigilantly to protect myself and my kids. Especially when that guy tried to force his way into our house. I mean WTF? I grew up on 39th and Hinds and I remember Beck’s too. I sound just like my dad when I say “those were the good old days”

Sorry, comment time is over.