Small Brainerd Latin grocery targeted three times by thieves

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – A small business in Brainerd is struggling with a series of break-ins.

The Tiendra Martinez grocery store is a small business located near the intersection of Brainerd and Moore Roads.

The store and building owner say that on September 7, September 11, and this morning, they have had three separate break-ins to their business.

Their frustrations are high as they look to stop further damage from being done.

A close up image of one of the two Tiendra Martinez break-in suspects. Their face is completely covered by a white face mask. (Courtesy: John Britto)

For Owner Marta Martinez and her landlord John Britto, the recent break-ins have left a trail of destruction.

Britto said, “She is not making that much money, it’s stealing everything over 11 days and three separate times, that’s ridiculous. It’s not safe for the business.”

The result of the latest break-in is the glass completely smashed in, glass everywhere, and for the owner of Tiendra Martinez, she says that for a small business, this is completely devastating.

They provided us with this video of the break-in that occurred on September 11.

All three break-ins occurred in the early morning hours.

The video lasts for about two minutes, but in that time, a pair of two individuals break out the front door’s window, jump into the store, and begin ransacking items and money.

The two suspects were dressed in white from head to toe, including full face covering white masks.

The owners suspect these same two individuals are behind each break-in.

They have been in contact with Chattanooga Police, but are concerned they will be forgotten.

Britto said, “I made it for the guy, he has the recording and everything. I called them at the police department three or four times to pick it up, I think they aren’t taking any action, it’s very sad to say.”

Martinez has only had the store open for a year and a half, and is popular among Brainerd’s Hispanic population.

The owners hope that dream isn’t ruined by these break-ins.

Britto said, “There’s the pure images, they are there on the screen and everything. They can find it, please go and find them and please stop it!”

The owners are asking the public that if they know who these individuals are, please contact Chattanooga Police.

You do not have to give your name.