Police Seek Help In Locating Man They Believe Stole World War II Rifles From El Monte Museum

EL MONTE (CBSLA.com) — Police Friday asked for the public's help in identifying a man suspected of stealing early era rifles from the El Monte Historical Museum earlier this week.

According to the El Monte Police Department, surveillance-video images reveal that the man used a crowbar to pry open the rear door of the museum around 10:30 p.m Monday.

Officials said that the man broke several glass displays and removed multiple vintage World War II long rifles from the cases.

Authorities said that the man left the museum with rifles in hand through the same entrance and drove off heading eastbound on Mildred Avenue.

Police describe the man a Hispanic with dark hair and medium build, 25-30 years old, 150-180 pounds and is no taller than 5-foot-9.

He was seen on wearing a blue Dodgers T-shirt that read 'PUIG 66' on the back.

The man's vehicle is described as a white, 2-door Honda Accord with limo-tinted windows and black rims.

Police believe the man still has the rifles and that they will be recovered at the time of his arrest.

Anyone who may have information regarding this crime is urged to contact El Monte police detectives at (626) 580-2154.