Prestige Jewelers on Sepulveda Blvd. in Manhattan Beach was hit with a brazen mid-day smash-and-grab robbery on Saturday.

The jewelry company, which specializes in high-end jewelry, has been in business in the South Bay for more than 20 years.

According to a statement from the city, at approximately 12:40 p.m., five suspects - who were described as wearing hooded sweatshirts - used hammers to smash the jewelry showcases. An employee of the store responded by using a firearm to shoot towards the suspects. The suspects then fled the store to awaiting vehicles that were last seen fleeing southbound on Sepulveda Blvd. No employees were injured; however, some jewelry was taken.

“In a time when the community is grieving the loss of one of our own heroes, our number one priority remains steadfast in keeping the entire City of Manhattan Beach safe,” said Mayor Richard Montgomery in a statement. “We are grateful for the assistance from the Gardena and El Segundo Police Departments who have stepped up to assist our Police Department to apprehend the offenders involved in this crime.”

“We commend the swift and decisive action taken by our police force today,” said Chief Rachel Johnson in a statement. “Their commitment to public safety and their rapid response is a testament to the dedication and professionalism of our police force. We will continue to work diligently to ensure that justice is served.”

MBPD Detectives ask community members who witnessed the incident, or took video or photographs; or anyone who has any information pertinent to this incident, to contact Detective Hartnell at (310) 802-5127 or the MBPD Tip Line at (310) 802-5171 if you wish to remain anonymous.