Texas Fireworks Stand Robbed: Owner Offers Grace, Not Revenge

We live in where people just don't care anymore. Crime is rampant, and people seem to think it is ok to break into homes and businesses, wreaking havoc, hurting others' livelihoods. In a world where you could be engulfed in anger, one business owner decided to show grace to a thief.

We are in the 4th of July season, and many fireworks stands are open all across the state of Texas.  These fireworks stands are only allowed to be open from June 24th to July 4th.  In those 10 days, many people make their living for the year selling fireworks.

Why Fireworks Stands Are Easy Targets

Thousands and thousands of dollars worth of fireworks are stored in these stands when they are not open, and after they close, they become the targets of thieves.  This is why so many people set up campers right next to the stands and live out there, or they just build a stand-alone building.

Who Is Jonathan Cook?

Jonathan Cook, the owner of Johnny Fireworks Little Red Barn stand in Crowley, Texas, took to Facebook to try to track down the person who robbed their fireworks stand.  But instead of letting anger take control, he chose to extend grace to the thief.

The Firework Theft Facebook Post That Went Viral

In his Facebook post, he thanked the thief for reminding him of something bigger in life: people are hurting.

And when someone risks everything to steal in the early morning hours, under cover of darkness, with multiple cameras, they probably don’t need punishment as much as they need help.

Read More: Fireworks That Are Legal In Texas

Cook, guided by his Christian faith, chose to extend God’s grace, and instead of punishment for the thief, he wanted to "shine through the darkness".

When the world hands us hate, we hand back grace. Not because they deserve it, but because He gave it to us first. We don’t match this world… we rise above it.

He shared a message for the thief stating that he wanted to offer $200 cash for the return of the stolen fireworks with no questions asked, and even offered this person a job.  Cook chose this act of kindness because he doesn't believe in revenge but in second chances.

Because maybe what you need more than fireworks… is a fresh start.

Over 80,000 people shared the post, while other people also stepped up, offering to match Cook's $200.

UPDATE July 3, 2025: According to a Facebook post, the owner of the truck used in the theft was found; however, it wasn't the person who allegedly stole the fireworks, who was his step-brother.  The truck owner and the stepbrother were supposed to come and meet with Johnathan Cook, but as of July 3rd, they did not show up for the meeting. Another date has been set.  You can follow Jonathan Cook for any future updates.

Read More: 35 Fireworks Photos Better Than Anything You'll Take On July 4

They hope to turn this post into a redemption story and await the thief to come forward.

How You Can Help in This Fireworks Theft Redemption Story

If you by chance recognize the truck in the attached video, reach out and help give this story a happier ending. Even if you don't recognize this truck, you can offer your prayers for this business owner and especially the thief.