Paseo Businesses Burglarized; Suspect Caught on Security Footage
OKLAHOMA CITY — Several businesses in Oklahoma City’s Paseo District, including Soul Café, were burglarized early Thursday morning. Security footage showed the suspect breaking in and stealing cash.
The footage reveals the suspect smashing through Soul Café’s door, rummaging through the cash register, and stealing money before glancing directly at the camera during the act.
Brooklyn Smootie, the café’s supervisor, shared her reaction upon arriving to find the aftermath: “I remember I came in for my shift and glass was everywhere. [Omar was] cleaning it up and just trying to break it down in the most, like, non-emotional way possible because this is like our baby.”
As the café prepares to celebrate its first anniversary, they now face unexpected repair costs. “We were wanting to use that money to celebrate and add more things. But now we have to invest in a new door,” Smootie explained.
Another establishment, Flamingo Tiki Room, was also targeted, with police confirming the suspect matches the same description.
Despite the setback, Smootie noted the community’s support has been uplifting. “Thankfully, we’ve had a lot of people come and help us out. Like even clean up glass.”
She encouraged customers to continue supporting the café during this recovery phase, saying, “Come buy some empanadas!”
