Three Masked Thieves Strike Highland Park Jewelry Store in Four-Minute Heist

Devastating Blow to Family Business

A decades-old Dallas jewelry store became the target of a brazen smash-and-grab robbery that unfolded in just four minutes, leaving the family owners facing losses exceeding half a million dollars. Three masked suspects broke into Ylang 23 in Highland Park early Friday morning, stealing what ownership estimates to be $500,000 worth of goods in a burglary that took less than four minutes . The thieves used sledgehammers to shatter display cases, leaving them empty and the store floor covered in broken glass .

Ylang 23 has been a fixture in Dallas for more than 40 years, with its genesis dating back to about 1985 in Galleria Dallas before moving to Preston Center for about a decade . The store recently relocated to its current location at the Shops of Highland Park in August 2024 , making this devastating hit particularly cruel timing for the family business.

Store founder and co-owner Charles Teichman said this marks the first time his business has ever been burglarized, noting "I don't want to say we were due for it, because you're never due for it, but it happens" . When Teichman walked into his store after the break-in, he was speechless, and even days later, the surveillance video remains almost too difficult for him to watch .

Scope of the Theft

The stolen items include laptops, iPads, handmade custom jewelry fixtures and jewelry, along with extensive vandalism to the property . Co-owner Alysa Teichman revealed that while the business has insurance, "the net loss will be tremendous for my family" , with actual losses likely exceeding the initial $500,000 estimate.

The break-in occurred shortly after midnight on January 23, 2026, with the three masked individuals using sledge hammers to gain entry, though fortunately no employees were present and no injuries were reported . The timing was particularly challenging as the robbery happened just hours before a winter storm moved into North Texas .

Investigation and Community Response

Highland Park police conducted a thorough investigation of the premises, reviewing footage and cameras from all angles, with officers expressing optimism about finding the perpetrators . The Highland Park Police Department continues actively investigating the incident, with the family expressing appreciation for the quick response and support from law enforcement .

Ylang 23 has built its reputation over four decades by specializing in designer jewelry and staying "on the forefront of trends," offering necklaces, rings and bracelets . Co-owners Charles and Alysa Teichman say the community's support is helping them recover from this devastating blow .

Road to Recovery

Despite the challenges, the store is set to officially reopen when the display cases are repaired and continues to provide online sales . The store's team is currently inventorying the merchandise to assess what was stolen and the extent of the damage, sharing this information publicly in coordination with law enforcement to assist the investigation .

This brazen daylight robbery highlights the vulnerability of luxury retailers and the devastating impact such crimes have on family businesses. While insurance may cover some losses, the emotional toll and business disruption create lasting damage that extends far beyond the monetary value of stolen goods. The swift police response and community support offer hope that justice will prevail and this resilient family business will emerge stronger from this traumatic experience.