A 19-year-old resident of San Luis Obispo, William Castro, was arrested on suspicion of commercial burglary at the Sears department store on Madonna Road on Friday.
Police responded to an activated burglary alarm at the store at approximately 1:54 a.m.
While investigating the cause of the alarm, a suspect wearing a ski mask and gloves emerged from the building, authorities said.
A brief foot chase ensued as the suspect, later identified as Castro, ran in the direction of Embassy Suites and was apprehended on the south side of the building, police said.
Police say Castro was found in possession of a small amount of cash and an undisclosed amount of merchandise, including tools, belonging to Sears.
He’s been booked into San Luis Obispo County Jail on suspicion of commercial burglary with bail set at $20,000.
Police say it appears Castro was acting by himself and no other suspects are being investigated in the alleged burglary.