Armed gunmen robbed a popular Pokemon trading card shop in New York City, making off with more than $100,000 worth of collectibles during a packed community event.
Police say three masked suspects stormed into The Poke Court in Manhattan’s Meatpacking District on January 14 while employees and dozens of customers were inside for an arts and crafts night.
According to investigators, the suspects were dressed in black hoodies and masks. At least one of the men allegedly pulled out a handgun and threatened people inside the store as the robbery unfolded.
Surveillance footage shows two of the suspects stuffing backpacks with high-value Pokemon cards and collectibles, while also taking an undisclosed amount of cash from the register. A third suspect reportedly pulled down the front curtain and guarded the door, stopping anyone from leaving.
Police say the entire robbery lasted less than three minutes. After the suspects fled, an employee locked the door and called 911. No injuries were reported.
Over $100,000 in Pokemon cards stolen in armed robbery
One of the hosts of the event, Alcremie Sundae, shared an emotional video on X describing the moment the gunmen rushed in while she was leading a Pokemon card toploader decorating session.
“It breaks my heart,” she said through tears. “Something as wholesome as arts and crafts for Pokemon cards could have something happen like this.”
Courtney Chin, the founder of The Poke Court, echoed that sentiment while confirming everyone inside the store was physically unharmed.
“No one should have to have a gun in their face while enjoying their hobby,” she said, while thanking the community for its overwhelming support following the incident.
The robbery adds to a growing list of Pokemon-related crimes in recent years. As the value of rare cards continues to skyrocket, stores and collectors alike have been targeted in thefts, break-ins, assaults, and high-profile heists, involving hundreds of thousands of dollars in stolen cards.
Police are still searching for the three suspects. Anyone with information has been urged to contact authorities.
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