What started as repeated shoplifting at two Milwaukee gas stations turned into a violent, on-camera assault over the weekend, leaving workers shaken and managers filing police reports. Surveillance video shared with reporters shows groups pushing past the cashier barrier and grabbing merchandise from behind the counter.
The trouble is concentrated at two stations owned by the same people: the BP near 91st Street and W. Brown Deer Road and the Citgo near 94th Street and W. Brown Deer Road. As reported by TMJ4, store footage appears to show thousands of dollars in losses over multiple nights. Faces in the videos were blurred because some suspects may be minors, and managers told reporters that two police reports were filed on Tuesday following the assault. Employees say the thefts kept happening even after that attack, which has only made morale worse.
Workers Describe a Nightly Pattern
Employees told reporters the thefts usually hit around 8 to 9 p.m., often costing the stores hundreds of dollars in goods in a single incident. One worker who was assaulted spoke only on condition of anonymity and said he fears for his safety. Managers say several staff members are now hesitant to work alone.
Security video from store cameras shows people going straight for high-demand items, including cigars, snack racks and other stock normally kept behind the counter, a setup that usually provides at least a thin layer of protection.
Police Step Up Patrols
Milwaukee police say they are investigating both locations and are asking anyone with information to contact the department. A spokesperson for MPD told TMJ4 the department would “conduct extra patrol in the area” and that its community partnership unit would reach out to the owner to develop a strategic course of action.
The manager told reporters the surrounding community needs to know what is happening at the stations they frequent, in hopes that neighbors can help identify suspects and support employees who are still showing up for their shifts.
A Larger Pattern
Loss-prevention experts say what is playing out on W. Brown Deer Road fits into a broader national pattern of increasing theft and more brazen behavior during retail crimes. The National Retail Federation’s industry study has documented sharp increases in shoplifting incidents and a rise in threats and violence during thefts in recent years, according to the NRF. Local owners say they are weighing tighter security measures even as they continue to push police for faster, more visible action.
What Owners and Neighbors Can Do
Managers at the two stations say they are looking at practical steps like brighter lighting, better camera angles and clearer signage to warn off repeat offenders. At the same time, they stress that these are only deterrents, not replacements for effective law enforcement.
Employees are urging customers to report suspicious activity and to share any video they might have with investigators. For now, workers say they are watching to see whether the promised extra patrols make a dent in the nightly losses.
Milwaukee police continue to investigate. Anyone with video or tips about the incidents at the BP or Citgo is asked to contact MPD. This story will be updated as authorities or store owners release more details.
