A string of commercial burglaries has struck Chicago's Back of the Yards neighborhood, according to the Chicago Police Department (CPD). The CPD's advisory informs the public of these incidents that have occurred in the 9th District, specifically detailing the method of entry where offenders broke into businesses through the rear door.
The burglaries in question took place on the 4700 and 4600 blocks of S. Ashland Ave in the early hours of November 18, with the first incident being reported at 3:16 A.M. and the following one at 4:22 A.M., in the aforementioned location; the burglars forcefully entered the establishments and made off with various items, though the precise nature of the stolen goods has not been disclosed by the authorities.
Regarding the offenders, descriptions suggest a group of 2 to 4 individuals. The CPD's notice includes details of one suspect as an African American male dressed in a black hooded sweatshirt and black pants, with others similarly wearing dark clothing and ski masks to obscure their identities. They were seen using a red minivan with the license plate EM38484 during the execution of these crimes.
Local businesses have been advised to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures; these include increasing perimeter lighting, ensuring that doors and windows are secure, and promptly repairing any broken access points. In the instance of surveillance footage capturing the incident, proprietors are encouraged to save and provide a copy for investigative purposes, and should an incident occur, they are advised to avoid tampering with the scene and to contact police immediately; similarly, if a witness offers information, business owners should obtain their details.
