Manhasset, New York – A group of armed robbers struck outside the Apple Store at Americana Manhasset, one of Long Island’s most upscale shopping destinations, early Saturday morning, authorities report. The incident left delivery workers shaken but unharmed and raised concerns about security at high-end retail locations.
Stickup at Apple Store Delivery
According to the Nassau County Police Department, the heist occurred around 8:05 a.m. as two delivery workers, both 65 years old, were unloading multiple boxes of Apple products outside the store. The robbers, reportedly dressed in all black, approached the men and held them at gunpoint, quickly snatching the goods from their truck before fleeing the scene.
Despite the bold nature of the robbery, neither worker was injured during the incident. Police responded promptly after receiving a call from the victims and launched an immediate search, but the suspects remained at large as of Sunday afternoon.
Community Reacts to the Heist
Shoppers and employees at the Americana Manhasset mall expressed shock and concern over the armed robbery.
“It’s really upsetting. Any armed robbery anywhere is upsetting,” said one shopper in an interview with News12 Long Island.
The mall, known for its high-end offerings, houses around 60 luxury retailers, including Chanel, Prada, Rolex, and Valentino, making the theft particularly audacious. While the stores were closed at the time of the robbery, authorities say the incident underscores the risks faced by delivery personnel and the need for increased security measures.
Investigation Ongoing
Police are actively investigating the stickup, reviewing surveillance footage from the mall and surrounding areas to identify the suspects. Details about the suspects’ identities or whereabouts have not yet been released.
Authorities urge anyone with information about the robbery or who may have witnessed suspicious activity near the Apple Store early Saturday morning to contact the Nassau County Police Department.
The police department emphasized that maintaining public safety and preventing further incidents remains a top priority.
Context: High-End Mall Target
Americana Manhasset is an open-air shopping center popular with both locals and tourists, offering a mix of luxury brands and designer boutiques. The high-profile nature of the mall and the valuable electronics being transported make it a target for opportunistic thieves, according to security experts.
Mall security teams are cooperating with police as they review protocols for deliveries and access to retail loading zones. Authorities have yet to release information about any recovered merchandise or the total value of the stolen items.
How should high-end retailers and malls protect delivery workers from armed robberies? Should security measures be updated to prevent similar incidents in public shopping areas?
Share your thoughts in the comments and discuss ways to keep communities, workers, and shoppers safe in Long Island’s retail districts.
