Residents and business owners in West Town are on high alert after a series of commercial burglaries were reported in the neighborhood, the Chicago Police Department has issued a business alert. According to the alert, these break-ins have been happening in the Near West 12th District, involving an unknown individual who smashes the glass doors of businesses with a rock to gain entry and steal items such as cash registers, safes, money, and alcohol before leaving the rock at the scene.
Four incidents have been detailed in the official police announcement, all of which took place between March 10 and 11, 2025. The affected locations span from the 1300 to the 1400 blocks of W. Grand and Chicago Avenues. The offender, described as an unknown male wearing a gold sweater, blue jeans, black gym shoes, and light blue headwear, has managed to elude capture thus far.
Authorities are advising business proprietors to enhance security measures by keeping their properties well-lit and securely locked to deter future incidents. Suspicious activities should be reported immediately, and if a break-in does occur, business owners should avoid tampering with the crime scene and contact the police right away. Those with video surveillance are urged to retain incident footage for investigative purposes.
The police's communication underscores the importance of community vigilance. "Be aware of this crime and notify nearby businesses" the alert stresses. If approached by a potential witness, business owners should obtain contact information to assist detectives with their inquiries.
