A string of commercial burglaries has struck Chicago's Armour Square and South Loop neighborhoods, prompting an urgent business alert from the Chicago Police Department. The announcement, released on Christmas Eve, pointed to a series of break-ins that occurred in the early hours of December 19. According to reports, a lone male offender targeted a trio of businesses, smashing their front windows or doors to gain entry and steal money from cash registers.
The burglaries took place at the 2100 block of South Archer Ave. around 12:01 A.M., followed by the 2000 block of South Wentworth Ave at 4:42 A.M., and finally the 2000 block of South Wells St. at 5:36 A.M. In what appears to be a calculated spree, the thief has been described as a male between the ages of 28-38, weighing an estimated 160-200lbs. He was last seen wearing a black face mask, brown jacket, and black sweatpants with a white stripe, along with black/brown shoes, and black gloves, and was carrying a black duffel bag.
The Chicago Police Department has issued safety recommendations for businesses, including maintaining well-lit perimeters, securing doors, windows, and air conditioner units, and promptly repairing any damage. Additionally, businesses with surveillance systems are urged to save and duplicate footage that could assist in the ongoing investigation. For those who find themselves victims of such burglaries, the advice is clear: don't touch anything and call the police immediately. Witnesses to any suspicious activity or the incidents themselves are encouraged to come forward with information.
For the community's reference, an online resource has been made available, with the full alert and details published on the Chicago Police Department's official website. Business owners and local residents are beckoned to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior they may encounter, as authorities work to apprehend the individual responsible for these breaches of security and peace.
