Miami-Dade jeweler loses $900,000 in watches and chains after armed home invasion

Alain Guevara Hernández, a jewelry merchant in northwest Miami-Dade, reported that armed men stole approximately $900,000 in inventory from his home on Monday night. The incident occurred at a residence on Northwest 177th Street and 85th Avenue at roughly 10:30 p.m., according to the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office. Deputies arrived to find the jeweler injured and transported him to a hospital in stable condition. Two adult women in the home were not injured.

Guevara stated that the intrusion began when a former customer arrived at the house claiming interest in purchasing a Cartier watch. Once the man entered, he produced a firearm and pointed it at Guevara. As Guevara attempted to exit, four additional men entered the residence. Surveillance footage captured the group entering the home, where they threatened the women and began filling bags with watches, chains, and other items. A hooded individual was seen carrying a long gun toward the women, while another robber carried a safe out of the house.

The victim described a violent struggle in which the attackers threw him to the ground and beat him. He recounted receiving multiple hits to his head, eyes, and feet with a gun. He also noted that one attacker fired near his foot, though he was not struck by the bullet. Guevara showed investigators deep bruising and stitches on his face and head resulting from the assault.

The jeweler estimates the thieves took about 60 watches, between 50 and 70 chains, numerous bracelets, jewelry cases, and safes. He said he relied on the convenience of selling from his home to clients he knew, a practice that continued for years. He provided recordings to investigators showing the lead suspect with his face uncovered. While cameras distinguished at least four individuals inside, Guevara insists five people were involved in the robbery.

The Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office Robbery Unit is leading the investigation. Preliminary reports indicate that several individuals forced their way into the home and removed belongings without authorization. Authorities have not yet confirmed the specific value of the stolen merchandise or made any arrests. The sheriff's office confirmed that deputies responded to a report of a home burglary and found an injured adult man upon arrival.

Guevara said he plans to change his business model after the attack. He intends to open a storefront with stronger security measures rather than continuing to sell from his home. He addressed the suspect directly, recalling how he had treated the man like family during previous visits. He asked the suspect to turn himself in to the authorities.