Summary: A 24-year-old man, identified as Jose Alejandro Giraldo, allegedly smashed jewelry cases at a Greenville Costco while armed with a machete and a pickaxe. Customers and employees detained him until police arrived; one customer was injured during the restraint and received medical attention. Giraldo was charged with armed robbery and third-degree assault and battery, and a mugshot was released.
Machete- and Pickaxe-Wielding Suspect Detained By Shoppers After Costco Jewelry Smash In Greenville
Armed suspect with machete, pickaxe detained by customers during Costco jewelry heist: reports
Authorities say a 24-year-old man armed with a machete and a pickaxe was arrested after allegedly smashing jewelry display cases at a Costco on Woodruff Road in Greenville, South Carolina. Customers and store employees helped detain the suspect until police arrived.
What Happened
Greenville police responded Thursday to reports of an armed robbery in progress at the Costco location. Officers identified the suspect as Jose Alejandro Giraldo, 24. According to local reports, Giraldo entered the store and broke into display cases at the jewelry counter while carrying a machete and a pickaxe.
Witnesses and law enforcement said the suspect indicated he had a firearm when confronted. Early 911 callers described the tool used to smash the glass as looking like a hammer; investigators later confirmed the presence of a machete and a pickaxe.
Detention, Injuries And Charges
Customers and several store employees restrained Giraldo inside the warehouse until officers arrived. Emergency medical personnel were called after one customer sustained an injury while helping to subdue the suspect; local outlets did not immediately provide details on the extent of the injury.
Giraldo was charged with armed robbery and third-degree assault and battery. The Greenville County Detention Center subsequently released a mugshot. FOX Business and local outlets reported the incident and said law enforcement was contacted for additional comment.
Note: Authorities continue to investigate and have not released a full timeline or motive.
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