URGENT UPDATE: A shocking burglary at LA Fresh Cuts in South Los Angeles has left the community reeling after thieves not only stole thousands of dollars in cash and equipment but also the shop’s beloved pet cat, Simba. The incident occurred just before 2:30 a.m. on Thanksgiving, with surveillance footage capturing the chaos as masked burglars wreaked havoc in mere minutes.
Owner Joe Gomez expressed his devastation, stating, “They pretty much just destroyed my business in two minutes.” The thieves smashed their way into the barbershop on East Florence Avenue, targeting inventory, barber tools, and $14,000 in cash meant for the shop’s fantasy football leagues.
The loss that has impacted Gomez the most is the disappearance of Simba, a friendly Savannah cat who is considered part of the family. “Not only did you guys take away a family member, but you’re taking away from the community,” Gomez pleaded, urging the public to help locate Simba. The surveillance video shows the moment the burglars hastily grabbed Simba in his kennel, leaving him frantically searching for help.
The damage has left Gomez scrambling for solutions, as he now faces significant financial strain. “It’s about $14,000 that I have to cover,” he noted, highlighting the urgency of his situation. In response, Gomez has increased security measures, even resorting to sleeping on the barbershop couch to prevent further break-ins.
As detectives continue to review surveillance footage for leads, the community is rallying around Gomez and LA Fresh Cuts. A GoFundMe page has been established to assist with repairs and to bring Simba back home.
The investigation is still ongoing, and the shop remains hopeful for a quick resolution. For now, the focus is on reuniting with Simba, who has been described as more than just a pet—he’s a family member.
Authorities urge anyone with information about the burglary or Simba’s whereabouts to come forward. The community’s support could make all the difference in recovering what was lost and restoring a sense of safety at LA Fresh Cuts.
