COLUMBUS, Ohio — Columbus police arrested a suspect Tuesday morning who they believe broke into several businesses on the city’s west side, including a pet store where several animals were released.
Officers with the Columbus Division of Police were called to Roosters at 5225 Nike Station Way near Hilliard just after 3 a.m. Police were notified of a burglary alarm going off.
Officers discovered that the restaurant was broken into. Detectives obtained video evidence showing a man with long hair wearing leopard-print pajamas inside the restaurant. It is unclear whether anything was taken from the restaurant.
About 100 yards away, officers found that the Petland store was also broken into, and several animals were seen running around in the parking lot. Police recovered two dogs, multiple birds, a hamster and at least two bunnies.
Animals recovered after being set loose when suspect broke into west Columbus pet store
Columbus Police Sgt. Joe Albert said officers were still searching for a couple of bunnies and birds and a ferret.
“One day, you’re running after a suspect. The next day, you’re running after ferrets and bunnies,” he said.
While searching the area, officers discovered the Famous Footwear store on Hilliard Rome Road was broken into. Albert said it is believed that the suspect is connected to the break-ins at the three businesses.
Officers also found blood at the scene and believed that the suspect was injured.
Albert said the suspect, who police identified as Matthew Pancake, was found sleeping near the Big Lots on Roberts Road at 4:47 a.m. Officers arrested him and discovered there were four hamsters in his pants.
Pancake was taken to a hospital to be treated for his injuries. He is charged with breaking and entering and vandalism. A judge set his bond at $10,000 during his arraignment on Wednesday.
Editor's Note: Columbus police initially provided an incorrect name for the suspect. Police later corrected his name to Matthew Pancake.