The Chicago Police Department has issued a community alert following a series of arson attacks targeting cannabis dispensaries in the Jefferson Park and Ravenswood/Lakeview areas. The alert, distributed by CPD and detailed on their official website, cites two incidents on the 4700 block of N. Milwaukee Ave. and the 4000 block of N. Damen Ave., which occurred on April 19 and April 27, respectively.
Surveillance video captured an unknown male suspect who forcibly used a hammer to quickly break the front windows of the dispensaries. After breaking in, the suspect was seen igniting a Molotov cocktail and hurling it into the establishments. The suspect's attire during both incidents consisted of a black hooded sweatshirt, sweatpants, gym shoes, and a face mask, in addition to a black fanny pack worn across his body, as detailed by the Chicago Police Department.
Business owners in the affected districts are advised to increase their vigilance and security measures. The CPD recommends keeping properties well-lit, securing doors and windows, and ensuring that any damage such as broken windows or locks are promptly repaired. They also urge business owners with surveillance systems to save the footage and provide copies for investigating detectives. In the event of witnessing such crimes, the public is encouraged to report any suspicious activities immediately and approach police without touching anything if they become victims.
The suspect is described as a male, approximately 5'09", weighing between 190-240 pounds. Those with any pertinent information are urged to take action by reaching out to the authorities. The CPD has emphasized the importance of community cooperation, calling on witnesses to also step forward with contact information to potentially aid in the capture of the perpetrator. For further developments, residents and business owners can stay informed via the CPD's news portal.
