LAFAYETTE, CALIFORNIA — We love to break stories here at Bay Area Telegraph. But only when they’re about things like food or a cool new store. It always saddens us to have to share breaking crime stories.
Unfortunately, though, that’s what we had to do on Friday, when a popular local cafe here in Lafayette was hit in a scary blitz-style robbery. Now, long-time customers are taking it upon themselves to help the owner rebuild.
Friends and regulars of Panache Caffe have launched a GoFundMe to help the owner, known to customers as Apple, recover after an early-morning robbery that left the front door shattered and a safe torn from its base. They have launched a GoFundMe for the store.
The fundraiser says six thieves rushed the shop as Apple was opening; thinking fast, she hid inside and thankfully was not physically harmed, but the experience must have been terrifying.
As of this morning (Nov 9), the campaign had raised about $3,300 toward a $12,000 goal to cover repairs, electronics, and lost income while the cafe recovers. The fundraiser is organized by Lafayette resident Yasmine Zaeni and lists Panache’s address as 3653 Mt. Diablo Blvd. Organizers emphasize that Apple is the sole beneficiary.
What Happened
Local reporting indicates the crew struck around 5 a.m., smashing the glass door and hauling away a bolted-down safe along with cash and electronics.
Apple realized what was happening when the door broke, then found a place to hide while the thieves ransacked the cafe. Neighbors described the incident as a blitz-style hit involving up to six masked, male suspects. Thanks to the readers who sent in tips–if you see something, send it to tom@bayareatelegraph.com
Bay Area Telegraph previously observed the door boarded up and spoke with locals who relayed similar details, including the number of suspects and the stolen safe. That initial item also noted Apple’s long hours and community support.
How the Community Is Helping
The GoFundMe was created by friends and customers who say they want to “get her back on her feet,” pointing readers to Apple’s lattes, blueberry scones, and boba as reasons the small shop matters in Lamorinda.
We agree. If you want to know why Panache matters, check out our review of their Rose Black Tea, our personal favorite.
You can also check out my video review:
If you’d like to help, the GoFundMe is here: Help Panache Caffe Owner Recover From Robbery.
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How to Share Tips
If you saw something that could help investigators, contact Lafayette Police via the city’s non-emergency line. If this fundraiser spurs any community events or on-site support efforts, send details our way so we can spread the word.
