Police in Lompoc interrupted a burglary at a smoke shop early Thursday after being alerted by the owner viewing a live surveillance camera showing people attempting to break into the business.

At approximately 1:21 a.m., the owner of Discount Cigarettes, 1412 North H St., called the Lompoc Police Department saying he was viewing live surveillance of his store, and could see three people trying to gain access through the front door. 

“As officers responded, the subjects made entry and were putting items in bags,” Sgt. Andrew White said. “When officers arrived on scene, a vehicle that was backed up to the front door took off from the business.”

Officers pursued the vehicle but ended the chase after a minute due to safety concerns

However, the suspect’s vehicle left a trail of stolen merchandise along the pursuit path, White said. 

“When the vehicle fled, it left behind two suspects who fled in separate directions but were apprehended. Burglary tools fell out of the suspect vehicle and there were tools recovered from the suspects,” White added.

Merchandise recovered totaled more than $20,000, with another $10,000-$15,000 in items still outstanding, White said.

Arrested were Los Angeles residents Quame Brooks, 22, and Naquan Reddix, 21, on suspicion of burglary, resisting arrest, possession of burglary tools, conspiracy and felony vehicle evading. 

They were booked into the Lompoc City Jail.