Two burglars, one of them possibly a child, broke into a San Bernardino animal shelter Tuesday night and released seven dogs – then left with one of the dogs with them, police said.
Investigators were reviewing surveillance video they say shows the two burglars driving up in a car to San Bernardino Animal Control at 333 Chandler Place about 7 p.m., the San Bernardino Police Department said.
The burglars used bolt cutters to cut through a chain-link fence and get inside, where they cut the locks off seven kennels. Minutes later, the two are seen carrying one dog into the car and driving off.
It appears one of the burglars was about 12 years old, police said.
As of Wednesday afternoon, five of the dogs had been found and two remained missing, including the pit bull mix that was taken.
Surveillance footage showed one of the burglars fumbling as he or she tried to carry one of the dogs back to a car.
Investigators were trying to identify the burglars and figure out a motive.
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"What was the intent of not only taking the dog but there could be other crimes," San Bernardino Police Lt. Richard Lawhead said. “What are they using the dogs for? Is it just they want to rescue their dog or is it they wanted that dog and couldn’t pay for it?”
Investigators say they have a possible lead involving the pit bull mix that was taken.
Police said it appears the car the burglars were driving was a white Buick Regal.
No arrests had been made by Wednesday evening.
Anyone with information was asked to call San Bernardino police.
