Masked thieves steal 40 guns from Bargain Barn

The federal ATF and Jasper police are offering a $5,000 reward after the weekend break-in at a popular sporting goods store and the theft of 40 guns.

A video surveillance camera caught three masked men smashing display cases at the Bargain Barn in Jasper early Saturday and, in less than two minutes, escaping with 34 semi-automatic pistols and six rifles.

The value of the guns was not immediately disclosed.

“Right now, we’re in the early stages of the investigation,” Marc Jackson, spokesman for the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, said Thursday afternoon.

Jasper Police Chief Harold Cantrell said the public’s help is needed.

“We need to prevent these stolen firearms from falling into the hands of felons, gang members and juveniles before violent crime and tragedy results.”

The ATF operates a toll-free, 24-hour hotline at 1-888-ATF-TIPS (1-888-283-8477).

Anyone with information also can contact Jasper Police Detective Gleason at 404-317-2532. Callers can remain anonymous.