A legacy pizzeria in Rochester, New York, is reeling after a late-night break-in attempt that took place on Sunday, October 19.
According to Rochester First, the co-owner of Savastano’s Bakery & Pizzeria said staff arrived early that morning to discover signs of forced entry—a moment that left them feeling “violated.”
The incident took place at the popular venue on Spencerport Road, which has served the community for decades. A burglar reportedly attempted to gain access through a back window; although no one was injured, the break-in resulted in extensive damage totaling nearly $2,000. Moreover, the disruption has shaken the owners’ sense of safety.
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“It’s very sad,” co-owner Gina Savastano-Couture told Rochester First. “You feel violated, you really do.”
Authorities have arrested a man, identified as 62-year-old Richard Graham, in connection with that incident as well as an alleged break-in at nearby Papa Joe’s Italian Eatery, where money and a cash bag were stolen. Rochester First reports that Graham has 10 prior felony convictions dating back to 1986. He has been on parole since May.
Savastano-Couture said the suspect “didn’t get into our establishment, thankfully. We were lucky. What happened was, he went into the back of our business, and when our morning bakers arrived at 4 in the morning, we think it spooked [the suspect], and he moved on.”
She added, “If he needed something, we’re a very loving family and very giving. He could have come to us. We will give you the shirt off our backs, [but] don’t come and destroy our premises.”
Savastano’s doesn’t appear to have a website, but a close examination of its social media posts suggests the restaurant has been in business for at least 50 years.
