Chicago neighborhoods are facing a string of bold burglaries, where the thieves' targets are not apartments or storefronts, but what lies within parked motor vehicles. According to a community alert issued by the Chicago Police Department, several areas, including the West Loop Gate, River North, and Lincoln Park, have seen an uptick in work van break-ins. These incidents have been reported across the 1st, 18th, and 19th Police Districts.
In a disturbing pattern of events, unidentified individuals have been observed quickly breaking windows to gain access to the tools stored within these vehicles. If they are unable to reach the rear of the van, they resort to sawing off the locks and entering through the sliding doors. These burglaries all occurred during the early morning hours, a time when streets are quieter and vehicle owners are usually preoccupied with construction work.
As per the police department's report, these crimes have been recorded on a number of streets such as N. Lake, N. Kinzie, and W. Addison, with locations and times spanning from the early hour of 5:40 a.m. to as late as 2:10 p.m. Offenders appear to be strategic, likely staking out their targets and striking when the opportunity is quick and less risky.
The suspects in these crimes have been described as 2 to 4 African American males, aged 30-40, each standing about 5'8" to 6'2" tall, and most commonly dressed in all black clothing—sometimes adorned with fluorescent work vests to possibly blend in with the work sites they prey upon. The police department has urged the public to remain vigilant, "Be aware of your surroundings," and to "secure your vehicles with car alarms." Moreover, they advise, "If you see suspicious persons call 911. Always lock your vehicle."
While the police work to apprehend the individuals responsible for these burglaries, vehicle owners are encouraged to take extra precautions to protect their property. Anyone with information is urged to come forward to aid the investigation and help put a stop to these criminal activities plaguing the hardworking residents of Chicago.
