Miami, Florida — Police in Miami are investigating an early-morning burglary after two teenagers allegedly smashed their way into a smoke shop along Biscayne Boulevard and made off with more than $10,000 worth of merchandise, according to authorities.
The break-in happened just after 7 a.m. Wednesday at The Joint, a smoke shop located in a busy stretch of the city. Surveillance video obtained by investigators shows the suspects arriving together on electric scooters, wearing hooded sweatshirts and keeping their faces partially concealed as they scoped out the business.
Officers say the incident unfolded quickly but deliberately, suggesting the teens knew exactly what they were looking for once they got inside.
Surveillance Video Shows Methodical Break-In
According to police, the suspects spent several moments peering through the glass door before taking action. In the video, one of the teens can be seen pressing his face close to the storefront window, while the other repeatedly says the word “Zaza,” a slang term often associated with marijuana products.
“The suspects appeared to be checking what was inside and confirming what they wanted before breaking in,” investigators noted while reviewing the footage.
After surveying the interior, one of the teens picked up a rock and began throwing it at the glass door. It took several attempts, but eventually the door shattered, allowing the pair to enter the shop.
Inside the Store for Nearly 10 Minutes
Once inside, police say the teens remained in the store for approximately 10 minutes, moving through different sections and grabbing merchandise from shelves and display cases.
Authorities confirmed the stolen items included:
- Vape devices and cartridges
- CBD products
- Smoking accessories, including a bong
At one point, surveillance footage appears to show one suspect stuffing a bong into his pants as they continued collecting items.
“This was not a quick grab-and-go situation,” an officer familiar with the investigation said. “They moved through the store calmly and took their time.”
The suspects eventually exited the store and fled the area on their scooters before officers arrived.
More Than $10,000 in Merchandise Stolen
Police estimate the total value of the stolen goods exceeds $10,000, dealing a significant financial blow to the business owner. While no injuries were reported, the property damage and loss of inventory have added to growing concerns among local business owners.
This incident is part of a wider pattern of smoke shop burglaries across South Florida, many of which involve young suspects targeting high-value, easily resold items such as vapes and cannabis-related products.
Community Concerns Grow Over Youth Crime
The burglary has renewed concerns about teen-involved retail crime, particularly in early-morning hours when businesses are closed but nearby traffic is already picking up.
Residents and business owners in the area say smoke shops have increasingly become targets due to the high resale value of their inventory.
“These shops are getting hit because the products are small, expensive, and easy to move,” one nearby business owner said. “It’s frustrating and scary.”
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Police emphasized that while the suspects appeared young, the charges they could face are serious if identified and arrested.
Police Asking for Public’s Help
Miami police are actively reviewing surveillance footage and canvassing the area for additional cameras that may have captured the suspects before or after the break-in. Investigators believe the scooters used during the crime could be a key detail in identifying the teens.
Authorities are urging anyone who recognizes the suspects or has information related to the burglary to come forward.
“Even small details can make a big difference,” police said. “We’re asking the public to help us identify those responsible.”
Tips can be shared directly with the Miami Police Department or anonymously through Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-8477.
As the investigation continues, officers say they are working closely with local businesses to increase awareness and prevent similar incidents in the area.
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