Chicago businesses across a swath of neighborhoods are on high alert after a string of brazen burglaries struck the 2nd, 3rd, 7th, and 11th police districts. The Chicago Police Department released a statement outlining a series of burglaries involving thieves crashing Jeep Grand Cherokees into storefronts to gain entry, snatching merchandise, and making swift getaways in these and other vehicles.
According to the police report, each incident occurred in the early morning hours, with the first at the 6900 block of South Ashland Ave. on August 19 at 4:40 A.M., in Englewood. The heists continued with burglaries on the 3200 block of West Chicago Ave. on August 25 at 3:09 A.M., in the Harrison district, on the 3300 block of South MLK Drive on August 24 at 5:49 A.M., in Wentworth, and on the 2100 block of East 71st Street on August 28 at 2:40 A.M., in the Grand Crossing district.
In response to these break-ins, the Chicago Police Department has advised business owners to maintain well-lit perimeters and ensure that doors and windows are secured. They also stressed the importance of repairing any broken entry points promptly and utilizing video surveillance to aid in ongoing investigations.
For those unfortunate enough to fall victim to such crimes, the authorities have offered clear instructions, stating, "If you are a victim do not touch anything, call police immediately," and emphasized the importance of not disturbing potential evidence. They also urge any witnesses to share contact information with the businesses affected, potentially aiding in the apprehension of the criminals.
