Contractors in East Hyde Park and Bronzeville are being put on high alert by the Chicago Police Department as a series of vehicle burglaries has gripped the neighborhoods. According to an official community alert, the burglaries have seen thieves breaking into contractor work vans and fleeing with power tools, with one incident involving a handgun being displayed.
Reported by the Chicago Police, the thefts have taken place during broad daylight, with the offenders targeting vehicles by shattering windows and swiftly escaping the scene in a black Honda Accord. While the series of burglaries occurred on several blocks, starting from the 5500 block of South Shore Drive on the morning of December 2nd to the 0-100 block of East 45th Street on December 11th, the offenders, described as African-American males, have consistently employed this smash-and-grab technique.
Local contractors are being urged to remain vigilant. "Be aware of this crime and alert nearby area," the community alert recommends. It further urges community members to pay close attention to belongings left in vehicles, lock vehicles, activate security systems if available, and to immediately call 911, providing a detailed description of any suspects, including vehicle information. The notice also encourages the collection and preservation of video surveillance footage that may capture these incidents.
Additional security measures are being encouraged by the Police Department in the wake of these events. Using a window broken by the offenders, during one of the incidents, they displayed a handgun to the victim, which has elevated the sense of danger within the community. Police are highlighting the importance of quick reporting and the retention of any witness contact information that could aid in the ongoing investigations of these burglaries.
