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In Memoriam: Theodore Shaughnessy, Gallerie Jewelers, Killed in Home Invasion March 07, 2018 (3 comments)
Austin, TX—Theodore “Ted” Shaughnessy (left), 55, longtime owner of Gallerie Jewelers and a beloved fixture in the store’s neighborhood, was found shot to death in his home on March 2.
Police in Travis County, TX, responded to a 911 call from a woman in the house at 4:45 a.m., and upon arrival at the scene found Shaughnessy dead. They also found evidence of entry into the home and that the intruder may have been injured during the crime. At press time there were no leads to the perpetrator and no clues about whether or not Shaughnessy was targeted for being a jeweler or whether he knew his killer.
Although home invasions are relatively rare compared to other types of jewelry crime, they are a very real threat to jewelers. Click here for the Jewelers Security Alliance checklist of recommended precautions to try to prevent—or survive—a home invasion. Jewelers should review frequently and be sure all family members also follow the recommendations.
Gallerie Jewelers has been a member of the American Gem Society since 1999. Shaughnessy held the title of Registered Jeweler; his wife, Corey is a Certified Gemologist Appraiser.
A Facebook statement from Katherine Bodoh. CEO of AGS, said, “All of us at the American Gem Society are saddened and shocked by the tragic death of Theodore Shaughnessy, RJ on Friday. Ted and his wife are the owners of Gallerie Jewelers in Austin, Texas. It is times like these where words are not enough. Our hearts, prayers and deepest condolences are with his family.”
Longtime customers expressed shock and grief on social media and local news, remembering Shaughnessy for many good deeds and cheerful conversations. Many would stop into Gallerie Jewelers just to chat or, often, to pet the store’s three canine staff members, Brina, Bart, and Liesl.
Brina, one of Shaughnessy's beloved champion Rottweilers, greets a customer in the store.
A notice on Gallerie Jewelers’ Facebook page says the store will be closed until further notice.
