PORTLAND, Oregon — A violent robbery at a cannabis dispensary in Southeast Portland has left one employee with serious injuries, sparking concerns over security in local businesses. Portland Police are investigating the incident that occurred late Tuesday night at Truly Pure Dispensary, located on Southeast Grand Avenue.
According to authorities, four masked individuals forcefully entered the dispensary around 9:40 p.m., with one of them brandishing a firearm. Surveillance footage captured the intruders as they coerced an employee upstairs to a secluded back room. The video further documented the physical assault on the worker, who was punched multiple times by one of the assailants.
Matt Buker, co-owner of the dispensary, expressed his dismay over the attack. “It’s deeply upsetting,” he said. “We’re relieved he survived, though he’s severely shaken up and his recovery will be difficult both physically and mentally.”
The employee was later hospitalized with a broken nose, a black eye, and a possible concussion, resulting from another attack where he hit his head against a metal door. “The impact was so severe that he immediately collapsed,” Buker added, noting the significant swelling on the victim’s head.
During the nearly four-minute ordeal, the assailants filled several bags with stolen goods and cash. At one point, a camera briefly captured the face of one suspect as he momentarily lowered his mask. This individual, according to Buker, was responsible for the physical assault on the employee.
The culprits fled the scene in a dark-colored BMW X4. In the wake of the robbery, Buker disclosed that the local cannabis industry has seen an increase in similar crimes recently, with more than a dozen dispensaries targeted. He mentioned plans to enhance security measures, including installing a locking door with a buzzer system, which unfortunately had not been set up in time to prevent the recent incident.
Buker also voiced concerns about the need for greater support and protection for dispensaries. “Given the substantial tax revenue generated by our industry, it’s only reasonable to expect some level of advocacy and safety measures in place from local authorities,” he said.
No arrests have been made thus far in connection with the robbery. Portland Police are urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in their ongoing investigation.
This incident underscores a growing need for heightened security and legislative action to protect businesses in the cannabis sector, which continue to be targets for criminal activity despite contributing significantly to the local economy. Community members and business owners are calling for a collaborative effort to ensure a safer environment for both employees and patrons in the industry.