The Campbell Reporter

News

Taco Bravo robbed at gunpoint, first time since 1970 opening

By Koren Temple

Taco Bravo on at the corner of S. Bascom and Fewtrell avenues was robbed on Jan.14.

Two men wearing black hooded sweatshirts and facemasks entered the back door of the tacqueria at 1:55 a.m. Both men brandished guns as they ordered the three employees to get down on the floor, Campbell police Sgt. Charles Adams said.

One man tried to grab a money bag, but it was empty; the other man tried to take money from the cash register. A female employee tried to intervene, police said.

"When one of the guys grabbed for the money, one of the girls working here at the time slapped the money out of his hand," said a Taco Bravo manager, who didn't want to be identified.

Employees believe one of the suspects used to work at the store because the woman who attempted to intervene in the situation noticed his voice, even with the mask on, the manager added.

Police have identified the individual and are looking for him.

The thieves took $500 and escaped out the back door. Taco Bravo employees think a third individual may have been involved who drove the get-away car. No one was injured, and customers sat on the patio during the robbery.

This was the first robbery at the eatery located across from the Pruneyard Shopping Center since it opened in 1970. The restaurant will continue to stay open until 3 a.m., but will keep its back door secure. Security cameras that were not working during the robbery have been repaired.

"Everyone was just shocked when it happened, including customers. Many employees were shaken up," the manager said.

Anyone with information about the incident may call Sgt. Charles Adams at 408.866.2121.