10K of LEGO merch stolen from family-owned toy store in Pierce County

A University Place toy store, Sasquatch Bricks, was burglarized early Thursday morning, with thieves making off with over $10,000 in LEGO merchandise. The incident, which took place around 5 a. m. , was partially captured on cell phone video, revealing at least one burglar loading a U-Haul truck with stolen items. Store owner Scott Nelson expressed the emotional toll of the crime, describing it as an invasion of their home, where they work six days a week.

The suspects allegedly used a crowbar to pry open the front door and specifically targeted high-value LEGO sets, indicating they may have been familiar with the store's organization. The stolen merchandise included popular sets like the Colosseum, NINJAGO City, and the Millennium Falcon. Nelson's shop has served the community for a decade, specializing in collectible LEGO items. In response to the theft, he has reached out to other LEGO retailers and community groups to prevent the sale of the stolen goods. Local authorities are actively investigating the burglary and encourage anyone with information to contact the University Place Police or Pierce County Sheriff’s Department.