Vape shop ransacked

A local businessman in Penticton is furious after his store has been broken into for the second time.

Justin Chrystal, who owns Corner Vapes in Penticton, posted an emotional video on Facebook Sunday morning as he arrived to find the front door of his store shattered.

“People who know me know I try hard to give you guys what you need. I do my best and I sell my own things to pay bills,” he said. 

Alarms went off inside the store at about 5:15 a.m. and woke Chrystal up. When he arrived, he found his store damaged and many items were stolen. 

“This is the second time you’ve done this to me, my whole life is in here,” he said through tears.

Chrystal says he supports his three children and his wife through the business. 

“I don’t have the money to fix this,” he said. “I didn’t have money to pay my insurance last month.” 

Video surveillance captured two people shattering the front door and rummaging through the store.

Chrystal said he spoke to police and that he does not recognize the two thieves.

Since his posts on Facebook, the community is trying to help support the family and created a GoFundMe fundraiser. 

“Okay Penticton, it's time to step up,” said Dave Preece. “Owner (Justin Chrystal) seems to already be down on his luck along with his family of five. If we don't support our local business, what will we have left?”

Anyone who recognizes the individuals in the video or has any information should call Penticton RMCP.

Photo: Contributed