MONROVIA, Calif. — The owners of a longtime local restaurant are pleading for help after burglars broke into their home and stole $140,000 — their entire retirement savings, according to family members.
The couple, Pan Pimoslavakun and her husband Vorawat, have owned Burger Basket for decades and had planned to retire within the next several years using the cash they had saved over time.
Break-In Captured on Security Cameras
The burglary occurred on March 26, when surveillance footage captured multiple suspects entering the home.
According to the family:
- One individual initially knocked on the door
- Two others then broke in through a small window
- The suspects searched through belongings and handled the family’s dogs
- They took cash and sentimental items passed down through generations
The suspects reportedly fled the scene in a gray Nissan Rogue with stolen license plates.
Life Savings Built Over Decades Lost
Family members say the stolen money represented more than 30 years of hard work. The couple, who immigrated from Thailand, had kept the funds in cash at home as part of their retirement plan.
“We’re not young anymore,” Pan said, adding that the loss has deeply impacted their future.
The emotional toll has also been significant. Vorawat was briefly hospitalized due to stress following the incident, forcing the restaurant to temporarily close.
Community Steps In With Support
In the wake of the burglary, the couple’s son launched an online fundraiser to help recover the loss.
Support from the local community quickly followed, with customers visiting the restaurant in large numbers once it reopened.
“It made my dad cry,” their son said. “We’ve never seen him like that — it was overwhelming support.”
Police Investigation Ongoing
The Monrovia Police Department confirmed that the case remains under active investigation.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the suspects or the vehicle involved to come forward.
Family Urges Awareness
The family hopes their experience serves as a warning to others about the risks of keeping large amounts of cash at home.
“We don’t want this to happen to anyone,” Pan said. “This hurt.”