A Pasadena bakery is operating without air conditioning after thieves stole $4,000 worth of copper wire from its rooftop unit during a heatwave, leaving the business with $15,000 in additional damages.
The Sweet Red Peach Bakery reported the theft on Instagram, noting the incident occurred on the first day of intense heat. Without cooling, indoor temperatures reached 90 degrees, causing cakes to melt and freezers to fail.
Copper theft disrupts local businesses
Co-owner Danny Griffin told ABC News the theft was unexpected, as the bakery had not anticipated such targeted damage. Fellow co-owner Kenyatta Glover cited ongoing struggles, including recovery from the Eaton Fire, compounding the challenge.
The bakery is not alone. A nearby Trek Bicycle store has suffered three copper theft incidents in seven months, losing nearly $100,000. Despite the setbacks, Griffin expressed faith in overcoming the obstacle, stating, “You can’t have a testimony without a test.”
Community rallies behind affected bakery
Regular customers, including Ken Hitts, continue to support the business. Hitts told ABC News he prioritizes patronizing African-American-owned businesses, recognizing their unique hardships.
The bakery remains open on Arroyo Parkway as it addresses the damage.
