Griffith police are investigating the possible connections between two hair salon ram raid attacks on Friday morning, one in Yenda and the other in Yoogali, and the burning of a car in Collina.
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Owner of Blush Salon Hair Kristian Santolin described the ram raid attack as “huge damage for no gain” after hearing her salon smashed into at around 5am.
Also hit was Yenda Hair Affair and Beauty, owned by Doris Mancinelli, who was left “extremely frustrated” and “cranky” after discovering the only thing stolen from her own salon ram-raid on Friday was a measly $15.
Acting Inspector Luke Cole said police suspect the two attacks may be related.
“Given the similarities with the attacks in Yoogali and Yenda with the way they were broken into, we believe there may be a link there,” he said.
A car fire in Collina soon after the Yoogali attack is also suspected to be connected to the two raids, however police are still conducting forensic examinations.
Griffith police Chief Inspector John Wadsworth said on Friday they were on the hunt for the man behind the Yoogali attack.
“A Caucasian male was seen, wearing shorts and a hooded jumper, (and) a silver dual-cab utility with a molded tray, similar to an old Ford Ranger,” Chief Inspector Wadsworth said.
“It’s reversed into the big glass doors, (the man has) taken a small amount of money and driven off.”
Police say the attack on the Yenda hair salon happened between 6pm on Thursday night and early Friday morning.
All they bothered to take was $15 – all of that damage for only a few dollars, for nothing.
- Doris Mancinelli
“We believe a vehicle has been driven into a glass-fronted shop to gain entry. A small amount of coins were taken, and nothing else,” acting Inspector Cole said.
“All they bothered to take was $15 – all of that damage for only a few dollars, for nothing,” Mrs Mancinelli said.
Ms Santolin woke to the sounds of her shop being smashed into – the second time in less than 12 months.
“The last occurred just a few days before Christmas,” Ms Santolin said.
“I live next door now and we heard it this time, and it was even more horrible – something you work so hard for and take great pride in, it really shakes you up.”
Both Ms Santolin and Mrs Mancinelli are adamant that despite the stress, frustration and heartache, they were not letting it get them down.
”We were open for business that same day – so thanks to all the tradies, everyone who helped us out, and our understanding and supportive clients, we are very grateful,” Ms Santolin said.
I actually feel sorry for you, and I think it’s absurd you could have no empathy for those who work hard, who take pride it what they do. To drive a car into a shop is bottom of the barrel disrespectful.
- Kristian Santolin
Mrs Mancinelli’s salon will be open during normal business hours next week as well.
“They are not going to deter Yenda – we are tough little buggers,” Mrs Mancinelli said.
“The community has been really good, popping their heads in to see if we need anything. Thanks to Laurie’s Windows for their amazing help.”
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“I actually feel sorry for you, and I think it’s absurd you could have no empathy for those who work hard, who take pride it what they do. To drive a car into a shop is bottom of the barrel disrespectful,” Ms Santolin said.
Anyone with information can call Griffith Police on 6969 4299, or Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.
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