‘Panda Bandit’ Among Suspects in Boulder County Gas Station Burglaries
The Boulder County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s help in identifying suspects involved in two smash-and-grab burglaries at a Superior gas station. The crimes occurred in the early hours of November 2 and November 10 at the Safeway Fuel Station on Colton Road. Among the suspects was one individual dressed in a panda onesie, earning the group the nickname “Panda Bandits.”
Both incidents involved the suspects breaking a door with rocks to gain entry and stealing tobacco and vaping products. Sgt. Dave Salaman of the Boulder County Sheriff’s Office noted the unusual nature of the crime. “First time I’ve ever seen a panda commit a crime,” Salaman remarked, underscoring the unique choice of disguise.
While the panda costume was only used in the first burglary, the suspects adopted more conventional attire during the second incident. They wore dark-colored pants or jeans, dark hoodies, and white sneakers. One suspect carried a distinctive green backpack, while another had a black backpack. “It’s very typical for somebody to cover up as much as they can,” Salaman explained, “but a panda costume is definitely out of the ordinary.”
Authorities believe the suspects are teenagers or young adults. They are asking anyone with information about the burglaries to contact the Boulder County Sheriff’s Office tip line at BCSOtips@bouldercounty.gov or 303-441-3674. The investigation remains ongoing as officers work to track down the culprits behind these unusual crimes.
