Target employees in Los Angeles County’s Chinese district were so brave that they fought off zero-dollar shopping robbers

In a recent incident at a Target store in Azusa, California, a suspect attempted to flee with stolen goods, leading to a dramatic pursuit by a male employee. The event, described as a “zero-dollar purchase” incident, sparked significant media attention after footage of the chase was widely circulated on social media.

According to KTLA5, the incident occurred at the Target located at 809 North Azusa Avenue. Video footage captures the suspect running down an alley near the store, heavily loaded with stolen items. A diligent employee closely followed, and as the thief struggled to manage his haul, he dropped several items on the ground. Seizing the moment, the employee quickly closed the gap, pushed the suspect to the ground, and calmly collected the fallen merchandise—including a large box—before walking away unhurriedly.

The aftermath left the suspect bewildered, lying on the ground and watching as the employee left the scene. Another Target staff member speculated that the heroic employee was the store manager, although this has not been officially confirmed. Many viewers lauded the footage, with local resident Mr. Zhang expressing admiration for the employee’s swift action. “While stores typically discourage employees from intervening in thefts, it was quite satisfying to see the suspect easily taken down and the property recovered,” he said.

Due to the increasing frequency of such “zero-dollar purchase” incidents, many items within this Target store have been secured. Azusa police noted they did not receive a report related to this particular theft but indicated that they often respond to about ten theft-related calls from the Target daily. Details about the specific items stolen during this latest incident remain unclear, and KTLA5 has reached out to the store for further comment.

Local shoppers suggest that the increasing thefts might be linked to the store’s proximity to a subway station. Resident Alisha Devezin pointed out, “This happens often, especially since it’s almost right at the end of the Gold Line. Many transients ride the subway to this area and steal from Target.” Alicia Holmes, who has worked in Azusa for nearly 13 years, remarked, “It wasn’t like this before; the crime rate only began to spike after the subway extension.”