The Winters Subway sandwich shop was broken into during the early morning hours of Monday, Feb. 8 incurring damaged property and stolen cash.
Owner Peter Malhi was awakened at home at 4 a.m. by a telephone call from ADT advising that his shop’s alarm had triggered. Malhi said the police were notified and when he arrived at the shop he found a window had been broken where the burglar gained entry.
The shop and other nearby businesses are equipped with video cameras. Winters Police Chief John P. Miller said his detectives are investigating and reviewing additional evidence.
Malhi said his shop’s video footage depicted a sole male suspect parking at the nearby Dollar General, walking over to Subway and breaking a window to gain entry. The store’s alarm system was triggered and the video revealed that the suspect remained inside for about five minutes.
Upon arriving at the store, Malhi found the cash register on the floor, the floor safe pried open and cash missing.
Malhi said he has since enhanced his security system.
“Be aware, we’re all struggling though a hard time. If you see something suspicious, call the police,” warned Malhi.
Since taking over the Subway franchise in July 2019, Malhi has been a noted community supporter. As previously reported in the Express, Malhi matched hundreds of meals donated by local customers to firefighters, first responders and medical staff and provided free meals to firefighters during the LNU fire.
The burglary of the Subway follows the vandalism and theft at the post office on Jan. 27 and the theft of six catalytic converters from Toyota Prisuses during the early morning hours of Jan. 30.
Anyone with information regarding suspicious activity, subjects, or vehicles in the area can forward information or video to tips.winters@winterspolice.org or call 530-795-4561.
Supporting local
DJ Troy Barnett announced on the Feb. 9 podcast of The B.A.R Experience (Episode 20) they will be giving away give $25 Subway gift cards on their next podcast on Saturday, Feb. 20.
DJ Barnett and Vince Rodriguez of The B.A.R Experience will be hosting a special event to help support Malhi from 1-3 p.m. at the Winters Subway (180 E. Grant Ave.) to help show local support. In addition to the Subway gift card giveaway, DJ Barnett will be playing music and Roxie’s Flower Truck and other local vendors will be on site.
“It’s our time right now to give back to Peter. We need to help him out,” Barnett said.
Community members are encouraged to order online or on the Subway App to help show support.
*Crystal Apilado contributed to this article.
