Burglar steals $5,000 in chainsaws from Johns Creek store

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. (FOX 5 Atlanta) - Police in Johns Creek have released surveillance images of a man who stole $5,000 worth of chainsaws in only a matter of seconds.  They hope someone will recognize the thief or his truck and contact investigators.

According to police, the burglary happened at Johns Creek Ace Hardware on Jones Bridge Road shortly before 6 a.m. Nov. 16.

"He went straight for the chainsaws," said Johns Creek Police Captain Chris Byers.

General Manager Richard Lukowiak and his family own and operate the store, which is known for its community involvement.  He said they spend so much time at the store, it feels like a second home.

"When I came in early that morning and the glass was broken and things were thrown around--violated, sad--that's the kind of feelings you get," said Lukowiak.

Surveillance video shows the man back a truck up to the front of the store, smash the front door with a sledgehammer and run inside to grab the equipment.  In all, he stole 11 Stihl chainsaws.

Police do not have much of a description of the man, but believe the truck was a 2006 GMC Sierra 1500.  They believe the man stole the chainsaws to resell them.

"We're hoping maybe somebody will have been offered one of these chainsaws or possibly purchased one of these chainsaws and will recognize him," Capt. Byers explained.

Anyone with information should contact Det. T.A. Seymour at 678-474-1547.