Thieves Steal $3,000 in Fireworks From Lakewood Stand

Approximately $3,000 in merchandise was stolen from a firework shack in Lakewood on Monday night, a day before businesses are allowed to sell fireworks in Lakewood and University Place. 

Mack Graham and his son, Antonio Graham, run the stand, which is located off 108th and Bridgeport. Mack Graham said the suspects broke through two fences using wire and bolt cutters and entered the firework stand, which shares its space with a 7-Eleven convenient store.

"They pretty much knew what they were doing," he said. "It's like walking up to a parking lot and finding your car gone."

It's the first time in 18 years at the same location their firework shop has been broken into, he said.

Thieves made out with large firework products and assortments retailed up to $199.99. Mack Graham had a running list of stolen goods, but he's afraid TNT Fireworks won't reimburse him.

The Grahams said they usually sell about $7,000 worth of fireworks, half of which goes to TNT Fireworks, where they buy their products. Mack Graham said their insurance doesn't cover theft and that it's going to be hard to recoup what was stolen.

"We're trying not to get stuck with the whole loss," Mack Graham said.

The Grahams, who are members of a Masonic nonprofit in Tacoma, said their firework proceeds go back into the community to assist with Thanksgiving turkey baskets and other charitable projects in Tacoma.

"We're going to restock each morning," Mack Graham said. "We're not leaving big-ticket items overnight (in our store) anymore."

Hallie McCurdy, West Pierce Fire & Rescue spokesperson, said of all the inspections the fire department conducted in Lakewood and University Place on Tuesday, this was the first reported firework stand burglary. There are 18 vendors in Lakewood.