Authorities are actively searching for three individuals responsible for a burglary at the Rural King farm supply store in Marion County. The incident, which took place on November 22 around 11:30 p.m., involved the theft of multiple firearms from the store located at 233 America Blvd.
Surveillance footage captured the suspects using a heavy object to break through two sets of glass doors before entering. The individuals were seen wearing gloves, face coverings, and glasses. One suspect carried a suitcase while another retrieved firearms from a display case. The entire operation was completed quickly, leaving behind broken glass and a boarded-up entrance.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) is collaborating with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office to investigate the crime. Evidence gathered from the scene is currently being analyzed in a crime lab.
A reward of up to $5,000 is being offered by the ATF and the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) for information leading to the identification and arrest of those involved. Although authorities have not specified how many or what types of firearms were taken, they stress that stolen guns often hold substantial value on the street, especially within drug circles.
“It takes all of us to solve these types of crimes,” stated an ATF spokesperson.
Anyone with details regarding this burglary is urged to contact ATF via phone at 1-888-ATF-TIPS (888-283-8477) or email [email protected]. Tips can also be submitted through the ReportIt app available on Google Play and Apple App Store.
This investigation is part of an ongoing effort between ATF and NSSF aimed at reducing firearm thefts from federally licensed dealers. Public cooperation is deemed essential in recovering stolen weapons and prosecuting those responsible.
For now, Rural King’s damaged entry serves as evidence of this bold criminal act. However, investigators remain optimistic that public assistance will result in apprehending those responsible.
