Full Breakdown
Violent Attempted Robbery Shakes North Hollywood Laundromat Owner
1/22/2026, 10:52:07 PM
Incident Overview: Attempted Robbery at Laundry King
On January 21, 2026, a violent attempted robbery occurred at the Laundry King laundromat in North Hollywood, California, leaving the owner, Varden Kostanian, and his customers in shock. Surveillance footage captured a masked man entering the laundromat wielding a metal pipe, demanding money from employees. When Kostanian's wife entered the business, she became a direct target of the attacker, who shoved customers and threw her to the ground. A customer promptly called the police, leading to the arrest of the suspect at the scene.
Impact on Business and Community Safety
The aftermath of the attack has significantly impacted the laundromat's operations. Kostanian reported that business plummeted immediately as news of the incident spread, stating, “I’ve never seen my laundromat empty like this.” The ongoing safety concerns in the North Hollywood area, which has a crime rate of approximately 36 incidents per 1,000 residents annually, have already prompted Kostanian to employ a nightly security guard from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. He is now contemplating the implementation of 24-hour security, a decision that could lead to financial strain. “I have to decide on a different kind of protocol or have security 24 hours, but then that means I’m going to have to go bankrupt paying my security guard. Unbelievable,” he expressed.
Background: Crime in North Hollywood
The crime rate in North Hollywood is notably higher than both the national and California state averages, with the cost of crime per person estimated at $518 annually. This context of persistent safety issues has contributed to Kostanian's decision to enhance security measures at his laundromat, reflecting broader concerns among local business owners regarding safety and crime.
Official Statements & Responses
Kostanian has voiced his distress over the incident, emphasizing the emotional toll it has taken on him and his family. He stated, “When I saw the footage, I was devastated.” The LAPD responded quickly to the scene, arresting the suspect and addressing the immediate threat to the community.
Criticism & Opposition
While Kostanian is focused on improving security, some community members have expressed concerns about the effectiveness of increased security measures. Critics argue that relying solely on private security may not address the underlying issues of crime in the area and advocate for more comprehensive community safety initiatives.
What's Next: Future Security Measures
As Kostanian weighs his options for enhanced security, the incident has sparked discussions among local business owners about collective safety strategies. The potential implementation of 24-hour security at Laundry King may serve as a case study for other businesses facing similar challenges in high-crime areas.
