Masked thieves swiftly snatch $50,000 worth of Gucci merchandise in a California heist, leading to an arrest and ongoing pursuit of accomplices.

A daring heist unfolded in California last week when a group of masked thieves executed a lightning-fast theft, making off with a staggering $50,000 worth of merchandise from a Gucci store, as revealed by local law enforcement on Tuesday.

Watch the video below:

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The incident transpired at the Valley Fair Mall in San Jose on October 5, while reserve officers from the San Jose Police Department were on their second job assignment. Reports indicate that the officers immediately responded to the scene upon learning of an organized retail theft targeting the luxury retail store.

Security footage captured the shocking moment when five masked individuals overpowered a security guard stationed at the front entrance of the Gucci store. Swift and audacious, the thieves seized purses and other high-end items before making a hasty escape. The entire heist took less than a minute, according to the security footage from the store.

Who is Shawn Pruitt?

During the theft, a reserve officer managed to detain one of the suspects, identified as Shawn Pruitt, a 27-year-old resident of Henderson, Nevada. However, the arrest did not come without a struggle. Pruitt allegedly resisted apprehension and even launched an attack on the officer by throwing punches.

Assistance from a mall security guard was crucial in subduing Pruitt, and after a brief but intense struggle, he was taken into custody. Two stolen purses were successfully recovered as a result.

The remaining suspects managed to escape before additional officers could arrive on the scene. Law enforcement revealed that Pruitt had an outstanding warrant in Nevada for an unspecified charge. In connection with the Gucci store heist, he now faces multiple charges, including robbery, organized retail theft, possession of burglary tools, and assault on an officer.

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The search for the other suspects involved in this audacious theft is ongoing, as authorities continue their efforts to bring them to justice. 

4 robbers involved (Photo: Twitter/@wheresdamachine)