UPDATE: Cape Cod’s gaming community is on high alert following a series of high-value trading card thefts, with the latest burglary hitting Vanguard Tabletop Gaming in Hyannis last night, December 1. Just days after a staggering $36,000 heist at Darkwater Games in Mashpee, authorities suspect a connection between the two crimes.
Barnstable Police responded to the scene after reports of a break-in involving the shattering of a glass rear sliding door. Multiple patrol units, a K9 unit, and a police drone were deployed to secure the area following a “fresh break” report by the first responding officer, according to Hyannis News.
Surveillance footage reveals the suspect as a person with a medium to heavy build, wearing a mask, olive-green beanie, olive-green pants, and a navy-blue sweatshirt. Notably, this individual bypassed lesser items, focusing exclusively on high-end trading cards, raising concerns among local collectors and retailers.
The earlier incident at Darkwater Games occurred on Black Friday, where the store lost approximately $36,000 worth of Pokémon, Lorcana, and Yu-Gi-Oh! cards. Following the theft, Darkwater Games received overwhelming community support, sharing a heartfelt message on Facebook: “We didn’t have the day we planned, but we still had a heck of a good day with all of you!”
As Mashpee Police continue their investigation into the Black Friday burglary, Barnstable Police and the Barnstable County Sheriff’s Crime Scene Unit are piecing together the details of the Hyannis break-in. Authorities have indicated that the suspect may have had a getaway vehicle nearby, prompting a warning for local shops and collectors to remain vigilant.
Authorities urge: “Collectors and local shops are encouraged to watch for anyone attempting to sell high-end graded Pokémon, Lorcana, or Yu-Gi-Oh! cards, or sealed products, at suspiciously low prices.”
Community members with any information regarding these thefts are urged to contact Mashpee Police Detective Donnis at 508-539-1480 ext. 7237 or the Barnstable Police Department at 508-775-0387.
As this story develops, local collectors and businesses must stay alert to prevent further losses in this alarming series of thefts. The Cape Cod gaming community is rallying together, but the risk remains high as the search for the suspect continues. Share this urgent update to keep others informed and safe.
