Two Indianapolis smoke shops were hit in overnight burglaries yesterday, including one where a vehicle was driven straight into the storefront to get inside. The incidents happened on opposite sides of the city, leaving owners sorting through damage while detectives work to track down whoever was responsible. No arrests have been announced, and police say the investigation is still active.
According to FOX59, Indy E Cigs on the northwest side near Woodland Drive and East 71st Street was rammed by a vehicle used to force entry into the shop. Roughly 45 minutes later, officers were called to Smoke Plus on North Arlington Avenue, where glass shelving had been smashed and thousands of dollars in merchandise, including designer backpacks, was reported stolen. Police did not release any suspect descriptions in either case.
Police ask for tips as investigation continues
The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department says detectives are investigating both burglaries but has not said whether the two incidents are related. Officers are reviewing surveillance video and looking for any witnesses who might have seen or heard something during the break-ins. Anyone with information is asked to call IMPD or Crime Stoppers at (317) 262-TIPS or submit a tip online via Crime Stoppers' P3Tips portal.
Damage and losses
At Smoke Plus, police reports describe heavy interior damage after glass display shelving was shattered. Investigators say "thousands of dollars" in merchandise was taken. At Indy E Cigs, employees reported a destroyed storefront after suspects allegedly used a vehicle to crash into the entrance and grab inventory. Those details were reported by FOX59.
How neighbors can help
Police are asking nearby residents and business owners to check their security and doorbell cameras from the overnight hours for anything unusual. Even small details, such as a partial license plate, the time a vehicle passed, or distinctive clothing, could help detectives piece together what happened. Tips can be shared anonymously through Crime Stoppers or reported directly to IMPD.
