Video: 200 Looters Storm Tampa Walmart During Civil Unrest

TAMPA, FL — The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office needs help identifying hundreds of looters who broke into a Walmart store and stole more than $100,000 worth in merchandise during the civil unrest Saturday, May 30.

Following a day of peaceful demonstrations protesting the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, the mood turned violent near the University Square Mall in north Tampa during the night. As protesters launched fireworks at and threw rocks and bottles at deputies and police, crowds took the opportunity to burn, vandalize and loot more than 40 businesses in north Tampa.

Among them was the Walmart at 2701 E. Fletcher Ave., which had been closed due to the nearby protests. Store surveillance videos show an estimated 200 people breaking through the front doors with hammers and other objects at 9:10 p.m. and then storming the store, stealing whatever they could grab.

Among the areas hardest hit was the electronics department where looters made off with an estimated $116,000 worth of merchandise.

"Not only is this violence completely unacceptable, it was disrespectful to the protesters who were out there that night trying to express their message in an impactful way," Sheriff Chad Chronister said. "We are actively working to identify each and every one of these suspects and ask the public to provide any information they may have."

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office at 813-247-8200.