Tempe, Arizona — Authorities in Tempe say three teenagers have been taken into custody after allegedly crashing a stolen vehicle through the front windows of a local smoke shop and making off with thousands of dollars in merchandise. The dramatic incident unfolded during the early hours of November 2, and police now report that suspects — ages 14, 15, and 16 — are facing multiple charges.
The targeted business, Up in Smoke Shop, sits near the busy intersection of Baseline Road and Mill Avenue, an area familiar to many residents. According to investigators, the break-in was both fast and destructive, leaving the shop owner dealing with extensive damage and major losses.
Police: Stolen Red Kia Used as Battering Ram
Detectives say the group used a red Kia sedan, reported stolen, to crash directly into the storefront. The impact shattered the glass entrance and allowed one of the teens to run inside.
Law enforcement estimates that the smash-and-grab resulted in nearly $30,000 in losses — most of it from large quantities of stolen vape products.
Shop owner Fadi Sayed shared his shock and frustration, saying, “You never really think it’s gonna happen to you.” He added that the destruction was devastating, not only financially but emotionally. “We worked hard to build a store, and it just kind of sucks to see the store get destroyed like that. It’s very reckless behavior.”
How Investigators Say the Burglary Played Out
Police report that the 16-year-old suspect was behind the wheel of the stolen red Kia when it plowed into the entrance. After stepping out of the vehicle, the teen grabbed a cooler, quickly filled it with vape products, and fled.
Waiting nearby, officers say, was a second stolen vehicle — a black Kia — driven by one of the other teen suspects. Once the goods were loaded, the trio sped off together.
The coordinated escape, investigators noted, suggests the act was planned rather than spontaneous.
Charges Filed Against the Teenagers
While all three teenagers are facing at least one car theft charge, police confirmed that only the 16-year-old is currently being charged with burglary related to the smash-and-grab itself.
Because the suspects are juveniles, authorities have not released their names. Officials stated that all three are being processed through the juvenile court system, where additional consequences may follow as the investigation continues.
Community Reaction and Ongoing Investigation
The incident rattled nearby business owners, many of whom are already cautious due to rising break-ins across the Valley. Although the shop has since reopened, the damage left behind was a harsh reminder of how vulnerable local businesses can be to fast-moving thefts.
Police continue to review surveillance footage and gather additional evidence, though they have not yet released information about whether the stolen Kias were tied to any other crimes.
Investigators encourage anyone with further details about the incident to contact Tempe Police as the case moves forward.
Should juveniles involved in high-dollar smash-and-grabs face tougher consequences?
Drop your thoughts in the comments — Tempe locals, business owners, and parents especially, we want to hear from you.
