In an attempted overnight robbery, a group of thieves hit a snag while trying to rip an ATM from its moorings at a Chicago business. The incident, having unfolded in the dark hours of Thursday, was promptly reported to the authorities. According to the Chicago Tribune, the Chicago Police reported the theft in progress around 2 a.m. at the 4500 block of West North Avenue, where a band of would-be thieves were spooked off before they could breach the cash machine.
Witnesses told police a vehicle pulled up and its occupants sprang into action, employing tools to crack open the ATM. However, their plans were dashed when they could not penetrate the machine's defenses, leading them to flee, as stated by the police. The escape route took them south on Cicero Avenue. As of now, the Chicago Police Department has not reported any arrests, and their investigation continues.
Further details emerged from CBS Chicago, painting the chaotic scene at a Bank of America in Humboldt Park, which placed the robbery attempt at the nearby North Avenue near Kilbourn Avenue. The aftermath left a scene of destruction with debris from the ATM strewn about and abandoned crime paraphernalia – including a backpack, wallet, license plates, and a large metal hook – were recovered by the officers on the scene.
Police said the botched robbery resulted in a smashed ATM, but noted the thieves were ultimately unsuccessful in obtaining any cash. The authorities are now piecing together the breadcrumbs left behind as they pursue the culprits behind the crimes.
