In a brazen overnight burglary, a film processing facility and camera retailer, Scott's Rochester Photo Supply, became the target of thieves. Surveillance cameras captured two individuals employing an unconventional method to gain access: smashing through the front door with garbage cans. The perpetrators then proceeded to quickly fill these same containers with valuable photographic equipment, highlighting a concerning trend of such incidents affecting businesses in the industry.
The incident unfolded in the early hours of Friday morning at Scott's Rochester Photo Supply, located in Rochester, New York. Police were alerted to the break-in after an alarm was triggered around 4:00 a.m. Upon arrival, officers discovered a broken window, the point of entry for the suspects, and confirmed that a significant amount of camera equipment had been stolen. The Rochester Police Department (RPD) has launched an investigation to identify and apprehend those responsible for the theft.
The film lab promptly shared surveillance footage of the crime on its social media platform. One video clip shows a person wielding a garbage can to shatter the front entrance at approximately 3:56 a.m., closely followed by a second individual also carrying a garbage can. Both suspects then moved behind the sales counter. A subsequent video reveals the swift action of the burglars as they stuffed numerous cameras and lenses into the cans while an alarm blared, before making their escape from the premises.
The store's management stated that the entire operation lasted less than a minute, indicating a targeted and efficient theft. The stolen inventory is extensive and includes high-end models such as a Canon R10, EOS R6 Mark II, Nikon Zf, Sony a6700, Sony a7S III, and Sony a7 IV, alongside a variety of Canon, Nikon, and Tamron lenses. Notably, the vehicle used by the suspects, a 2006 lifted GMC Sierra, had been reported stolen approximately 30 minutes prior to the burglary, around 3:30 a.m., further complicating the investigation.
Scott's Rochester Photo Supply is actively collaborating with both the RPD and its insurance provider to determine the full scope of the losses and ascertain what damages and stolen items will be covered. They have expressed gratitude for the outpouring of community support and suggestions but have refrained from initiating a crowdfunding campaign at this time, preferring to first understand the complete financial implications of the incident. Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding the burglary to contact 911, and the store itself has also requested any witnesses or individuals with relevant details to come forward.