ATF looking into thefts

Topton – Federal authorities are still hunting for whoever broke into a sporting goods store near Topton in August and stole nearly 60 firearms – but one suspect was arrested just days after the crime.

Sometime between 5 p.m. Aug. 13 and 6 a.m. Aug. 14, someone broke into Mason’s Sporting Goods, 22939 U.S. 19, between Andrews and Topton. Almost 60 firearms were taken during the burglary.

The U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information about a burglary in Andrews. ATF is working with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office in the investigation.

Ronnie Mason, owner of Mason’s Sporting Goods, said he was informed that one suspect was found passed out in a car in a church parking lot in Cleveland, Tenn.

That suspect had about 20 of the guns – the more expensive ones that were stolen, with some valued at around $1,500. Those firearms are being held in evidence, and there is no telling when Mason will get them back.

Mason said the suspect sold a couple of the stolen rifles and used the proceeds to buy drugs.

Mason said the burglars entered his business through a back door in a part of his store, where he once sold feed. The burglars, who numbered at least two, made off with almost 60 guns – 48 pistols and the rest AR-style rifles.

The burglars cleaned him out of pistols. Only two remained because they were concealed beneath holsters.

The total value of the lost weapons was $29,000. Mason said he was not insured.

“They knew what they were looking for,” he said.

Mason said business has been down since the August break-in, but he remains open.

Anyone with information about these thefts should contact ATF at 888-ATF-TIPS (888-283-8477) or the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office at 828-837-1344.

Information can also be sent to ATFTips@atf.gov or through ATF’s website at atf.gov/contact/atf-tips. All tips will remain anonymous.