News Summary
Pops Sports Cards and Gaming in Essex was burglarized on October 8, leading to a devastating loss estimated between $40,000 and $50,000 in merchandise. The store owner, Thomas Vanblargan, expressed deep concern for the future of his business, which has been an integral part of the community for four years. In response to the burglary, a fundraising event was held to support the store, but sales have declined significantly since the incident. The community is rallying together, raising questions about safety and security measures in the normally quiet neighborhood.
Essex is reeling after a local business, Pops Sports Cards and Gaming, was burglarized on October 8, resulting in an estimated $40,000 to $50,000 in stolen merchandise. The theft, captured on surveillance video, shows three individuals breaking into the store from the back entrance, prompting serious concerns about security in the area.
The store, owned by Thomas Vanblargan, has become a significant part of the Essex community over the past four years. However, the owner has expressed uncertainty about the future of his business following the loss. The theft included valuable hobby boxes, memorabilia, and three Pokémon cases, which greatly impacted the store’s inventory and sales. The emotional toll of the incident has been substantial, with Vanblargan describing the experience as “sad” after dedicating years to building the shop.
In response to the burglary, the store held a fundraising event the following Sunday to rally community support. This event featured food, a raffle, and various promotional activities and saw participation from approximately 50 attendees, all showing their solidarity for the beleaguered shop.
Despite the community’s efforts, Vanblargan noted that sales have considerably dropped since the burglary, highlighting the economic challenges that local businesses face during this difficult time. Pastor Kenrick Semple from the Church of God of Prophecy, which previously collaborated with Pops Sports Cards and Gaming on food drives, has also voiced support for the store, emphasizing the importance of community togetherness in times of crisis.
The burglary has shocked local residents, as Essex is generally regarded as a quiet area with few crimes. The incident has raised questions about safety and security measures in the neighborhood, leading Vanblargan to announce plans for enhanced security systems to protect against future incidents.
Efforts to gather more information from Baltimore County Police regarding the burglary have remained unanswered, leaving the community anxious for updates. In the wake of the theft, Vanblargan has encouraged anyone interested in supporting the store to visit in person and lend their help.
The situation at Pops Sports Cards and Gaming serves as a reminder of the vulnerability small businesses face and the critical role of community support in helping them recover from such devastating losses.
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Additional Resources
- WMAR2 News: Sports Memorabilia Store Burglary
- Wikipedia: Burglary
- Nottingham MD: Pops Sports Cards Grand Opening
- Google Search: Pops Sports Cards Essex
- Fox Baltimore: Ravens and Orioles Autographs
- Google Scholar: Sports Memorabilia
- Nottingham MD: Harford County Award
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Support
- CLC: Topps Hobby Rip Night
- Google News: Sports Collectibles
Author: STAFF HERE BALTIMORE WRITER
The BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBaltimore.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Baltimore, Baltimore County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Baltimore Book Festival, Preakness Stakes, and Artscape. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Baltimore Chamber of Commerce and Visit Baltimore, plus leading businesses in shipping and healthcare that power the local economy such as the Port of Baltimore and Johns Hopkins Medicine. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Maryland's dynamic landscape.
